Undergraduate - UnitATS1301 - Australian physical environments: Evolution, status and management

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered, or view unit timetables.

Notes

Synopsis

Provides a basic understanding of the landscape, vegetation and climate characteristics of the Australian region as a foundation for more advanced study in geography and related disciplines. Explains present patterns of landform, soil, biota and climate through an understanding of past environments and events. The focus on change is carried over into future environmental management issues.

Outcomes

On successfully completing the unit students will:

1. Be familiar with major ideas concerning the evolution of the Australian landscape, its biota and climate patterns;
2. Be aware of competing ideas and theories in the relevant literature;
3. Be able to synthesise and interpret relevant material and to communicate ideas to others in a coherent manner, by either written or verbal means;
4. Be familiar and proficient with some simple techniques for analysing basic geographic and physical environmental information;
5. Appreciate the importance of field work in studying the natural environment and the problems associated with making field measurements of natural phenomena.

Assessment

Written (2000 words): 35%
Examinations (2-hours): 30%
Practical and fieldwork reports: 35%

Chief examiner(s)

David Dunkerley and Colleagues

Contact hours

4 hours per week (2 x lectures per week and 5 practicals per semester and 1 x 2.5-day field excursion)

This unit applies to the following area(s) of study

Geography and environmental science (ARTS)
Australian studies
Geographical science
Climate change and society
Conservation of biological diversity and cultural heritage
Land and water management

Prohibitions

ENV1022