Monash University Handbook 2014 Undergraduate - Units

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge of human anatomy, including an understanding of the macroscopic structure and functions of the systems of the human body, the microscopic structure and functions of cell types and body tissues as well as the embryological origins of the human body;

2. Use anatomical and related medical terminology effectively in verbal and written communication;

3. Demonstrate observational and descriptive skills in relation to histological slides, anatomical models, dissected/ prosected anatomical specimens and radiographs;

4. Actively participate in groupwork to mirror future roles as members of a healthcare team.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Critically review the scientific literature in their specialist area of study;

2. Contribute to the design, development and implementation of a relevant research project;

3. Demonstrate advanced technical skills appropriate to their area of study;

4. Demonstrate proficiency in data acquisition, critical analysis of results, appropriate presentation, and scientific word processing;

5. Communicate effectively with specialist and non-specialist scientific audiences, in both oral and written modes;

6. Apply the University's Occupational Health, Safety and Environmental requirements appropriately within the context of their research discipline;

7. Apply the University's requirements regarding the ethics of conducting research on humans and/or animals appropriately within the context of their research discipline.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Apply experimental design and sampling methods relevant to their research project;

2. Tailor research design and experimental protocols, giving consideration to available resources, occupational health, safety and environment requirements and research ethics;

3. Critically analyse articles from the scientific literature;

4. Present scientific ideas and the results of their research (orally and in writing) clearly and effectively, choosing appropriate materials and presentation styles for general and scientific audiences;

5. Manage their work requirements, both independently and as a member of a team;

6. Recognise the University's Occupational Health, Safety and Environmental requirements appropriately within the context of their research discipline;

7. Recognise the University's requirements regarding the ethics of conducting research on humans and/or animals appropriately within the context of their research discipline.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Appreciate the scale of the Universe and Earth's place in it;

2. Describe the evolution and general properties of planets, solar systems, stars, and galaxies;

3. Apply laws of celestial motion and gravity;

4. Execute experiments involving telescopes and other simple apparatus and analyse, interpret and evaluate the results arising from them, including being able to describe the main features and performance of telescopes;

5. Present and communicate results of others and one's own experimentations in a scientific form.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Appreciate how the development of life is dependent on the conditions in the physical universe;

2. Understand the necessary conditions for life and how species evolve;

3. Appreciate how life depends on energy from the stars;

4. Recognise the significance of solar system dynamics in providing the thermal requirements for life;

5. Discuss modern theories of star and planet formation and evolution, and recognise the types of stars in galaxies;

6. Theorise on the possibilities of other life forms;

7. Discuss the development of consciousness;

8. Understand how the universe will evolve, and what this means for the future of life in the universe.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Understand the motion of the planets in the night sky;

2. Navigate the night sky using celestial coordinates;

3. Measure the brightness of celestial objects using astronomical images;

4. Understand the workings of reflecting and refracting telescopes;

5. Determine the angular resolution achieved by telescopes;

6. Describe the operation of CCDs;

7. Understand the statistics of photons from celestial objects;

8. Understand how astronomers determine the distances, luminosities, masses, radii and temperatures of stars;

9. Interpret the Hertzspung-Russell diagram;

10. Understand how stellar evolution can be inferred from observations;

11. Understand what observational astronomy tells us about the birth and fate of stars;

12. Use radio and Hubble Space Telescope observations to measure the expansion of the Universe;

13. Describe the emission processes responsible for radio waves;

14. Describe the origin of 21-cm wavelength radio waves;

15. Utilise 21-cm observations to measure the distances to and masses of galaxies;

16. Understand the principles behind radio interferometers;

17. Use radio observations to determine the masses of black holes and the radii of neutron stars;

18. Interpret astronomical observations and justify conclusions drawn via a concise and accurate written report.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Apply basic physical and mathematical principles to gain a quantitative and qualitative understanding of the universe;

2. Think physically about astronomical problems, and demonstrate this in a range of problem solving tasks;

3. Exhibit practical skills in computationally modelling astrophysical systems;

4. Demonstrate a knowledge of stars, planets, and galaxies sufficient to undertake further astrophysics studies at Level 3.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Understand the nature of stars - their life histories, how they produce energy, how they synthesise the chemical elements, and their ultimate fates;

2. Build a simple polytropic numerical stellar model;

3. Distinguish and discuss different types of galaxies;

4. Understand the relationships between stellar evolution, galactic evolution, and the creation of the elements;

5. Model computationally the motion of stars in galaxies;

6. Understand the implications of the observed nature of galaxies for theories of the universe;

7. Describe the morphology and kinematics of the Milky Way;

8. Understand the significance of dark matter to galactic structure;

9. Understand the use of optical telescopes for data collection;

10. Write an observational research report.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Describe the reasons for supplanting Newtonian physics with relativity theory;

2. Use special relativity to predict the behaviour of relativistic particles;

3. Discuss the relativistic paradoxes in an informed way;

4. Display basic knowledge of our current understanding of the beginnings, nature, and fate of the Universe;

5. Demonstrate an awareness of the current uncertainties in cosmology;

6. Display skills in analysing physical problems geometrically, thinking logically in a theory at odds with common experience;

7. Use mathematics to solve complex problems;

8. Interpret complex mathematical results and communicate them in written form;

9. Work in a team environment.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Describe the properties of elementary particles, their interactions and role in cosmological evolution;

2. Describe nuclear systematics, nuclear models and nuclear structure;

3. Describe the formation of supernova remnants and neutron stars, their radiation mechanisms and relevant physical processes;

4. Apply laws of plasma physics, particle physics and nuclear physics to understanding of structure and dynamics of supernova remnants and neutron stars;

5. Present results and critical discussion based on data analysis of supernova remnants and neutron stars.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Explain and understand concepts taught in the unit, including astronomical instrumentation, data processing, photometry and spectroscopy;

2. Describe how we observe celestial objects across the electromagnetic spectrum and how these observations are used to understand the nature of celestial objects;

3. Evaluate the accuracy of astronomical instrumentation and observations, including angular resolution, spectroscopic resolution and photometric precision;

4. Apply their knowledge to execute an observing program and use astronomical imaging to understand the nature of a celestial object;

5. Present and communicate the results of an astronomical observing program.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Search and analyse research literature;

2. Write a comprehensive research survey of a topic in astronomy and astrophysics;

3. Understand the current state of knowledge on their chosen research problem;

4. Perform guided research on their chosen topic at a level close to that required to publish in a research journal;

5. Write a comprehensive honours thesis that clearly presents their results and their justifications.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate an advanced understanding of astrophysics and related disciplines;

2. Apply their knowledge of these disciplines and critical thinking skills to the solution of problems in these fields;

3. Present results and discuss topics in this field professionally;

4. Make effective use of information and communication technology for the collection and analysis of data, the solution of problems and the presentation of their work;

5. Plan and efficiently carry out work requirements.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Understand the basic physical theory of the Earth's energy balance and large-scale climate dynamics and how it can be constructed from basic principles using mathematical analysis and numerical modelling;

2. Demonstrate knowledge and skills in using mathematical models and applications in atmospheric science and oceanography;

3. Demonstrate high-level knowledge and skills of the important techniques, terminology and processes of the large-scale physical climate, climate change and variability;

4. Develop, apply, integrate and generate knowledge to analyse and solve problems in physical climate dynamics;

5. Understand the importance of the physical climate dynamics to climate change and variability;

6. Collect, organise, analyse and interpret quantitative information meaningfully, using mathematical and/or statistical tools as appropriate to physical climate dynamics, including numerical programming;

7. Convey climate dynamics concepts, processes and results to diverse audiences.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Understand the basic physical theories of atmospheric processes, including the dynamics of motion and atmospheric thermodynamics;

2. Relate the theories with the development and structure of real-life weather systems, including severe storms, tornadoes and tropical cyclones, and use the resulting techniques for forecasting day-to-day weather;

3. Understand the formation of clouds;

4. Distinguish and classify different cloud types;

5. Develop, apply, integrate and generate knowledge to analyse and solve problems in atmospheric physics;

6. Collect, organise, analyse and interpret quantitative information meaningfully using mathematical and statistical tools.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Understand the physical theory of precipitation and radiation in the atmosphere and apply these principles to weather radar and satellite imagery using mathematical models;

2. Demonstrate skills in using mathematical techniques to understand the physics of the atmosphere;

3. Demonstrate high-level knowledge of the important techniques and terminology in physical meteorology;

4. Demonstrate competence in information technology, data handling, and laboratory skills;

5. Apply knowledge to analyse and solve problems in physical meteorology;

6. Convey physical meteorology concepts, processes and results to diverse audiences.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Understand the physical theory of the motion of the atmosphere and how it can be constructed from basic principles using mathematical analysis;

2. Demonstrate skills in using mathematical techniques to understand the dynamics of the atmosphere;

3. Demonstrate high-level knowledge of the important techniques and terminology in dynamical meteorology;

4. Apply knowledge to analyse and solve problems in dynamical meteorology.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate an ability to search and analyse research literature;

2. Write a comprehensive research survey of a topic in atmospheric science;

3. Understand the current state of knowledge on their chosen research problem;

4. Perform guided research on their chosen topic at a level close to that required to publish in a research journal;

5. Write a comprehensive honours thesis that clearly presents their results and their justifications.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate an advanced understanding of atmospheric science;

2. Apply their knowledge of atmospheric science and critical thinking skills to the solution of problems in that field;

3. Present results and discuss topics in this field professionally;

4. Make effective use of information and communication technology for the collection and analysis of data, the solution of problems and the presentation of their work;

5. Plan and efficiently carry out work requirements.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Describe how the structure of biologically relevant molecules contributes to their function in cells and organisms;

2. Define the molecular structure of biological membranes and their role in cellular metabolism;

3. Explain the physical and biochemical properties of proteins and describe how proteins function as enzymes;

4. Summarise the techniques and underpinning science that is exploited for the isolation, separation and characterisation of biological molecules;

5. Demonstrate technical skills in basic laboratory techniques used for the separation and identification of biological molecules and for measuring enzymatic behaviour;

6. Demonstrate the skills necessary to accurately interpret biochemical data;

7. Demonstrate an ability to research original published scientific literature and effectively communicate your findings either orally or in writing.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Discuss the function, interrelationship and regulation of the biochemical pathways used to generate biological energy;

2. Discuss the biosynthesis and explain the role of carbohydrates and lipids in metabolism;

3. Use Case Studies of human disorders to illustrate how metabolic processes are regulated and integrated in cells and tissues;

4. Relate how nutrition impacts on cellular biochemistry;

5. Evaluate clinically relevant metabolic problems from a biochemical viewpoint and communicate effectively to diverse audiences;

6. Apply scientific methodology and relevant laboratory techniques to define essential steps in biochemical pathways.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Describe the structure of eukaryotic cells and explain the function of key organelles;

2. Outline how different organelles are formed and positioned within cells and how these organelles respond to a changing environment;

3. Explain the mechanisms that target and move proteins to the correct organelle and how protein mis-localisation and organelle dysfunction may lead to human disease;

4. Discuss how the application of fluorescence-based imaging and other technologies increases our understanding of cells, organelles and cellular proteins;

5. Demonstrate the ability to organise, plan and successfully execute laboratory experiments relevant to molecular cell biology, as well as analyse and report the results in a meaningful way;

6. Demonstrate the ability to conduct literature-based research, identify key knowledge and concepts and build coherent arguments and explanations either in writing or in oral presentations;

7. Work effectively as a pair or in a group to achieve academic tasks collaboratively with respect for each other.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Describe the structure, organisation and functional rearrangement of eukaryotic genomes;

2. Explain the mechanism of DNA replication in eukaryotic cells;

3. Illustrate how gene expression is regulated in eukaryotes and how studies of DNA, RNA and protein levels contribute to our understanding of these processes;

4. Discuss how cell and animal models are used to build our understanding of disease processes and to develop potential therapies;

5. Describe how the application of genomic and other technologies is used to further our understanding of genomes and the treatment of disease;

6. Demonstrate the ability to organise, plan and successfully execute laboratory experiments relevant to advanced molecular biology, as well as analyse and report the results in a meaningful way;

7. Demonstrate the ability to undertake literature based research to collect and evaluate information relevant to current problems in biochemistry and molecular biology and to effectively communicate ideas in writing or orally.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Discuss the basic mechanisms of cell signalling and how disordered intracellular signalling contributes to the development of cancer;

2. Discuss the various aspects of the immune system in relation cell signalling and infectious disease;

3. Explain how cell death contributes to differentiation and disease;

4. Conduct literature-based research to critically evaluate how our evolving understanding of signal transduction contributes towards advances in biology, biotechnology and medicine and effectively communicate their research by both verbal and oral means;

5. Discuss the importance of the discipline to current advances in biology, biotechnology and medicine;

6. Illustrate how relevant laboratory techniques can be exploited to define essential steps in biochemical pathways;

7. Plan and apply advanced biochemical laboratory methods to solve problems in cell signalling and demonstrate appropriate methods for data analysis and interpretation;

8. Demonstrate technical and time management skills.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Describe the relationship between protein sequence, structure and function and relate this to specific examples in human health and disease;

2. Explain how proteins fold to their correct three dimensional shape and how this process may go wrong and cause disease;

3. Illustrate how NMR and X-ray crystallography are used to determine the structure of a peptide or protein;

4. Critically analyse how our understanding of proteins contributes to biotechnology and medicine, in particular comment on the contribution of protein engineering and proteomics to these fields;

5. Describe the use of fluorescent proteins as tools for characterising the role of proteins in vivo;

6. Apply experimental techniques and methodologies to determine the structure and function of an unknown protein.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Undertake a research project with regard to ethical and safety regulations;

2. Demonstrate technical skills in experimental methods and the ability to collect, analyse and interpret data using methods relevant to the discipline of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology;

3. Communicate appropriately and effectively with supervisors, laboratory staff and students;

4. Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of experimental procedures, results and outcomes;

5. Identify relevant published scientific literature and critically analyse and evaluate the content in the context of the discipline of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Recognise and understand biological concepts and processes including cell biology and biochemistry, genetics, diversity, evolution and ecology;

2. Display competence and precision in the use of laboratory equipment including pipettes, spectrophotometers and microscopes;

3. Formulate hypotheses, make predictions and carry out scientific experiments to test such;

4. Collect experimental data, evaluate it and present it in meaningful ways using appropriate software;

5. Communicate scientific principles and information underlying biology-related topics in written formats and using appropriate conventions for scientific attribution;

6. Perform library catalogue and database searches to locate and synthesize appropriate information for practical reports.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Understand and comprehend concepts and processes related to molecular genetics, genetic engineering and the biochemistry and physiology of organ systems, including homeostasis, nervous and muscular-skeletal systems, animal reproduction and development and nutrition;

2. Understand the nature of microbial diversity, in particular how it relates to human health and disease;

3. Demonstrate competency in laboratory procedures and techniques, including Gram staining, aseptic techniques, gel electrophoresis, and spectrophotometry;

4. Demonstrate competency in designing experiments, gathering data and analysing and presenting summative data in meaningful and accurate ways;

5. Communicate scientific principles and information underlying biology-related topics in written or oral formats and using appropriate conventions for scientific attribution;

6. Utilise skills in the use of library catalogues and databases to locate published information and synthesize such into essays and practical reports.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Understand the nature and importance of biodiversity, evolutionary concepts and processes, aspects of the evolution of the Australian biota and the nature of biogeochemical cycles;

2. Work in teams to discuss, design and implement a field experiment, including the gathering, analysis and presentation of data using appropriate software;

3. Undertake field observations of a species and collate, input and analyse such data;

4. Communicate scientific principles and information underlying biology-related topics in written or oral formats and using appropriate conventions for scientific attribution;

5. Demonstrate and utilise skills in the use of library catalogues and databases to locate suitable information for essays and practical reports.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Recognise the major anatomical features of the vertebrate body;

2. Describe the normal physiological function of the major systems of vertebrates;

3. Describe the behaviour of individual cell populations within each of these systems;

4. Discuss the integration of the activities of individual cell population to create a functioning system;

5. Understand the control mechanisms which operate within each system and within the functioning organism;

6. Measure physiological responses under a range of experimental conditions and choose appropriate reference material to interpret these responses.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Sketch a representative animal and/or plant cell;

2. Recognise cell organelles and state their function;

3. Draw representative structures for each of the major classes of biological macromolecules;

4. Summarise the roles of biological macromolecules in living cells;

5. Give examples of the relationship between macromolecular structure and function;

6. Discuss the cooperative action of the biological macromolecules responsible for cell function such as membrane transport processes and cell division;

7. Recognise common features of energy transduction systems in plant and animal cells;

8. Demonstrate basic laboratory skills - eg. measurement of mass, volume and time, recording and interpretation of experimental data, and report writing.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Describe the modern scope of scientific inquiry in the field of ecology;

2. Describe the differences in the structure and function of different types of ecosystems;

3. Identify and describe the fundamental drivers of patterns in diversity at local, landscape and global scale;

4. Explain the main limitations on patterns of energy flow through natural food webs and ecosystems;

5. Quantitatively describe patterns in populations and communities;

6. Apply basic ecological sampling techniques in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems and be proficient in summarising and reporting that data in the format of a scientific paper.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Describe the historical development of the theory of evolution and the evidence for the occurrence of evolution;

2. Explain the fundamental processes of evolution and the major evolutionary events in the history of life;

3. Describe the principles of systematically classifying organic diversity;

4. Apply the techniques for inferring the evolutionary relationships of organisms;

5. Synthesise and communicate scientific principles and information underlying evolution in oral and/or written formats.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Identify and describe the key environmental issues facing humankind and outline the role that humans play in environmental degradation and species extinction;

2. Evaluate and compare the conservation techniques that can be used to restore habitats and ecosystem function;

3. Appraise the special problems involved in attempting to conserve endangered species;

4. Integrate complex political, economic and social issues to formulate effective conservation outcomes.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Explain the principles underlying interactions between the genotypes of organisms and their environment;

2. Understand the application of those principles to ecology and conservation management and thus comprehend the roles of the field in society;

3. Apply practical and analytical skills in ecological, evolutionary and conservation genetics involved in the conduct of ecology and conservation;

4. Apply principles of experimental and survey design, data collection, analysis and interpretation, in the field of ecological and conservation genetics;

5. Synthesize and communicate, in oral and/or written formats, scientific principles and information underlying ecological and conservation genetics.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Describe the diversity of plants;

2. Explain the evolutionary relationships between plant taxa;

3. Demonstrate a basic knowledge of the Australian flora;

4. Identify plants using practical techniques.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Describe the origin of animals and how they differ from other living organisms;

2. Explain the relationship between animal diversity and evolutionary derived changes in animal body plans;

3. Identify major animal phyla;

4. Demonstrate skills in library and field research, data and information gathering, collation and organisation suitable for the preparation of a scientific report;

5. Demonstrate basic laboratory techniques associated with examining and handling zoological specimens.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Describe the relationships between functional anatomy, physiology and behaviour of animals that allow them to survive and reproduce;

2. Explain the function of major biological systems in animals and their adaptations to different environments;

3. Contrast the varying life history strategies of animals;

4. Identify morphological features of animals and relate these features to their function;

5. Demonstrate skills in research, data and information gathering, collation and organisation suitable for the preparation of a scientific report.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Describe the basic plan of higher plant anatomy, structure and morphology, the typical organization of cells and tissues found in different plant parts and common modifications found in Australian plants;

2. Explain the basic physiology and biochemistry underlying core processes in plants, including uptake and processing of nutrients from the soil, uptake of water and its passage through the plant, photosynthesis and its regulation;

3. Explain how plant growth and development is regulated by internal factors, particularly plant hormones;

4. Understand the key influence of the external environment in short- and long-term modification of plant physiology and form;

5. Demonstrate a critical, analytical approach to scientific research and show skills in writing scientific reports.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Understand the importance of hygiene, nutrition and welfare in animal health;

2. Describe the main features of a range of diseases and their symptoms in pet and farm animals;

3. Recognise the importance of observation and measurement of symptoms and the role of modern diagnostic medicine in disease control;

4. Give examples of diagnostic testing and interpretation;

5. Discuss the importance of disease control and research in the welfare and maintenance of animals.

Upon completion of the unit the students will be able to:

1. Describe the structure of bone and identify the major bones and bone markings. Explain the relationships between the structure of joints to the functional characteristics of the joints. Relate bone markings to the functioning of the musculoskeletal system.
2. Explain the relationships between structure and function of skeletal muscle and outline the control of force production by skeletal muscle.
3. Outline the processing of information within the central nervous system.
4. Explain the concept of homeostasis and the principles of negative and positive feedback mechanisms, illustrated within the context of movement.
5. Describe the structure and function of the heart, blood and blood vessels, and how the perfusion of the body's tissues is maintained and regulated according to physiological need.
6. Explain how the respiratory system adapts to meet physiological demand;
7. Demonstrate an awareness of ethics, ethics approvals and the ethical treatment of humans and animals.
8. Develop skills in the measurement of physiological parameters and the collection, analysis, interpretation and communication of experimental data.
9. Communicate effectively via written, verbal and visual/graphic means.

Upon completion of the unit the students will be able to:

1. Explain the mechanisms which allow recognition of self and non-self in mammals;
2. Relate the structure of the reproductive system to the functions of gametogenesis and fertilisation;
3. Explain how the endocrine system controls reproductive function in the male and the female and how these control mechanism may be manipulated to aid reproduction;
4. Describe the process of implantation and embryogenesis;
5. Describe the major changes in embryonic development in early pregnancy;
6. Discuss the development of foetal circulatory and respiratory systems and describe the changes that take place in the natal and post-natal period; discuss maternal adaptations to pregnancy;
7. Relate the control of the digestive system to digestive, absorptive, and metabolic functions;
8. Explain the function of the renal system in the maintenance the body's fluid and electrolyte balance and the extracellular volume;
9. Evaluate the interactions of the respiratory and renal systems in the maintenance of the extracellular pH;
10. Develop skills in the measurement of physiological parameters and the collection, analysis, interpretation and communication of experimental data;
11. Communicate effectively via written, verbal and visual/graphic means.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate an ability to conduct field-based surveys and research in tropical ecosystems, with an emphasis on the dominant communities from equatorial regions;

2. Demonstrate competence in the use of computer-based mapping skills and Geographical Information Systems in biological research and conservation;

3. Apply specialised knowledge and skills to the areas of resource and risk assessment, in relation to conducting biological research in the field, with special emphasis on tropical environments;

4. Demonstrate the ability to identify animals, plants and habitats from tropical Malaysian ecosystems;

5. Work collaboratively and effectively in the field in tropical environments.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate knowledge of the diversity of tropical ecosystems and how they function;

2. Demonstrate an understanding of ecological applications and processes relating to a range of aquatic and terrestrial tropical environments;

3. Undertake sampling programs to collect physico-chemical data and to identify and survey the flora and fauna of tropical habitats;

4. Manage, analyse and critically evaluate scientific data collected in the field;

5. Communicate findings effectively in the form of written scientific reports;

6. Work collaboratively and effectively in teams in tropical environments.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Explain the basic principles underlying the philosophy of science;

2. Design testable hypotheses and predictions in biological investigations;

3. Demonstrate critical, analytical skills in writing, assessing and publishing scientific papers and reports and interpretation of biological data;

4. Evaluate and determine the suitability of different statistical approaches to analyse biological data;

5. Apply current techniques of statistical analysis.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Describe the diversity and ecological importance of marine life;

2. Explain the fundamental physiochemical and physiological processes underlying the productivity of marine environments;

3. Explain the ecological dynamics of marine ecosystems;

4. Discuss the impact of human activity on the sustainability of marine ecosystems;

5. Demonstrate advanced scientific skills in project design, data collection, analysis and writing.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Describe the mechanisms underlying animal behaviour;

2. Explain how behaviour develops and why it is adaptive;

3. Evaluate the ways in which the environment shapes adaptive behaviour;

4. Design, conduct and analyse the results of an extended research project;

5. Communicate findings to a scientific and a general audience in individual and group settings.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Describe the basic processes governing the ways in which plants respond to their environment, from alterations in patterns of gene expression, through differences in metabolic activities to changes in morphology;

2. Explain the mechanisms by which plants cope with specific stresses in their environments, including drought, salinisation, extreme temperatures and global climate change;

3. Demonstrate a critical, analytical approach to scientific research and have developed skills in writing scientific reports.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Describe the major characteristics of the main Australian vegetation types;

2. Explain the basic ecological and historical processes influencing the characteristics of the vegetation types and their component species;

3. Integrate and explain the different interactions occurring within the plant environment;

4. Demonstrate competence in the methodological approaches that are used in plant ecology.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Explain the principles of landscape ecology;

2. Apply the adaptive management process in natural resource management;

3. Understand the need to cater for genetic variation and evolutionary potential;

4. Describe the links between natural resource management and the ecological theory on which it is based;

5. Evaluate management techniques, be familiar with the management options available to managers and decision-makers and be aware that management is conducted within a socio-economic framework;

6. Express informed opinions on the economic, ethical and political considerations of resource management.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Explain and synthesise the components, processes and services/values that characterise flowing (rivers and streams) and standing (wetlands, lakes and ponds) waters;

2. Use established and standard methods (both in the field and laboratory) to obtain, analyse and interpret ecological datasets;

3. Design, undertake and communicate the results of a field-based freshwater project.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Describe the historical factors that have influenced the evolution of the Australian vertebrate fauna;

2. Explain the significance of physiological, behavioural, reproductive and nutritional adaptations in vertebrates in relation to their ecology;

3. Describe the diversity and distribution of major vertebrate taxa in Australia;

4. Demonstrate competence in techniques for investigating the functional biology of organisms;

5. Communicate scientific findings in oral and written forms.

On completion of this unit students will understand the vast scope of plant and cellular biotechnology and appreciate its potential for improvement of the human condition and maintenance of a healthy environment - both in the Australian context and globally. Students will further develop their capacity to evaluate critically the current literature in this fast moving subject area. Also, students will have increased ability to plan experiments and collect and collate their own experimental data and present it for assessment. In undertaking experimental analyses, students will also acquire advanced practical skills of relevance to plant and cellular biotechnology industries within Australia and internationally.

Upon completion of the unit the students will be able to:

1. Understand the importance of human management in both natural and agricultural systems;
2. Understand the complexity of wild and domestic animal management and the ethical, ecological and human behavioural issues that impact on animal health and welfare;
3. Understand the role of research in the development of clear advice and guidelines to solve such issues;
4. Have confidence in their ability to present information in written and oral forms using available technological aids;
5. Further develop their ability to work productively in groups to co-operatively solve difficult issues;
6. Develop communication skills in understanding scientific articles, synthesizing information, writing client-based reports;
7. Demonstrate critical and reflective thinking to concepts and solutions in animal management;
8. Exhibit ethical and responsible attitudes to animal welfare and in the development of scientific writing and reporting of results; working in small groups; problem solving and understanding plagiarism.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Apply knowledge and skills gained in this unit towards effective environmental management and sustainable resource management;

2. Apply knowledge and understanding of the philosophical, ethical and legal need for effective environmental management;

3. Undertake sampling and survey activities to identify potential environmental impacts and minimise them;

4. Collect, collate, manage and analyse environmental data;

5. Report the results of environmental analyses in a variety of relevant media;

6. Contribute to the environmental decision making process in Southeast Asia;

7. Work collaboratively and effectively in teams in tropical environments.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate knowledge of the diversity and ecology of freshwater and marine environments in the tropics with particular reference to the Malaysian region;

2. Demonstrate understanding of the conservation and management issues relating to aquatic ecosystems;

3. Design and analyse sampling programs to examine the flora and fauna of aquatic habitats and to assess changes;

4. Demonstrate the ability to identify aquatic animals and plants from tropical Malaysian ecosystems;

5. Demonstrate advanced scientific report writing skills;

6. Make effective oral and visual presentations;

7. Work collaboratively and effectively in the field in tropical environments.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate an understanding of the diversity, structure and function of a range of tropical ecosystems;

2. Demonstrate an understanding of conservation and management issues relating to tropical ecosystems;

3. Demonstrate and understand the importance of climate, nutrient cycling, disturbance and forest dynamics, on the ecology of tropical plants and animals;

4. Design, analyse and undertake sampling programs to examine the flora and fauna of tropical habitats;

5. Demonstrate advanced scientific report writing skills;

6. Make effective oral and visual presentations;

7. Work collaboratively and effectively in teams.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Comprehend the fundamental process and requirements of scientific research;

2. Review and critically evaluate the scientific literature within a relevant discipline;

3. Demonstrate skills in experimental design, data collection and statistical analysis;

4. Interpret experimental results, and place the results in the broader context of the research discipline;

5. Communicate scientific findings and their implications, via oral presentations and written reports.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Apply a critical and analytical approach to scientific research;

2. Demonstrate skills in experimental design and in specialised techniques for laboratory and/or fieldwork in biological sciences;

3. Demonstrate skills in writing reports of scientific experiments and in searching the scientific literature;

4. Demonstrate skills in oral communication of scientific information;

5. Statistically analyse and present biological data;

6. Understand OHSE regulations, including hazardous and dangerous materials and risk assessments.

After completing this unit students will have demonstrated a high level of understanding of the theoretical and practical aspects in the research area of tropical biology, and will be able to:

1. Critically review the scientific literature in the discipline;
2. Understand, discuss and actively participate in the design, development and implementation of a research project;
3. Demonstrate skills in experimental design and in specialised techniques for laboratory and/or fieldwork in tropical biology;
4. Synthesise and present in a format suitable for the discipline, experimental results and statistical data analysis associated with the research project;
5. Present the scientific research findings orally to an appropriate expert audience;
6. Integrate the research findings from the project into the larger context of research in that particular field, primarily through completion of the required thesis;
7. Demonstrate the capability to learn new technical skills in the laboratory and/or the field and use these proficiently and safely.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate an advanced and broad understanding of the chosen biological field of study;

2. Recognise the place of biology within the broader scope of science and medicine;

3. Demonstrate skills in analysis and presentation of biological research data;

4. Demonstrate skills in critical analysis of current biological research;

5. Demonstrate skills in searching the scientific literature;

6. Demonstrate skills in written and oral communication of scientific information.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate an understanding of experimental design and sampling methods that are relevant to their research project;

2. Demonstrate an understanding of the impacts of resource limitation on experimental design and implementation;

3. Critically analyse articles from the scientific literature and use this ability to enhance the quality of their own written work;

4. Express themselves clearly and effectively to a scientific audience;

5. Write and manage assessment tasks expeditiously and competently.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Critically review the scientific literature that underpins the area of the research project;
2. Undertake a supervised research project and contribute to project design and management;
3. Apply appropriate laboratory techniques, research methodologies and data analysis methods to collect, interpret and report research findings;
4. Effectively present research and findings orally showing a firm grasp of the area;
5. Analyse research undertaken in the context of the discipline area and report findings in an extended written report.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Critically review the scientific literature that underpins the area of the research project;
2. Undertake a supervised research project and contribute to project design and management;
3. Apply appropriate laboratory techniques, research methodologies and data analysis methods to collect, interpret and report research findings;
4. Effectively present research and findings orally showing a firm grasp of the area;
5. Analyse research undertaken in the context of the discipline area and report findings in an extended written report.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Critically review the scientific literature that underpins the area of the research project;
2. Undertake a supervised research project and contribute to project design and management;
3. Apply appropriate laboratory techniques, research methodologies and data analysis methods to collect, interpret and report research findings;
4. Effectively present research and findings orally showing a firm grasp of the area;
5. Analyse research undertaken in the context of the discipline area and report findings in an extended written report.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Critically review scientific literature in the discipline area of research;
2. Apply knowledge of current methodologies and concepts to appraise scientific literature in the discipline area;
3. Apply analytical and data analysis techniques relevant to the discipline area of research;
4. Effectively communicate concepts in the discipline area of research both in writing and orally.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Critically review scientific literature in the discipline area of research;
2. Apply knowledge of current methodologies and concepts to appraise scientific literature in the discipline area;
3. Apply analytical and data analysis techniques relevant to the discipline area of research;
4. Effectively communicate concepts in the discipline area of research both in writing and orally.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Critically review scientific literature in the discipline area of research;
2. Apply knowledge of current methodologies and concepts to appraise scientific literature in the discipline area;
3. Apply analytical and data analysis techniques relevant to the discipline area of research;
4. Effectively communicate concepts in the discipline area of research both in writing and orally.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Describe how modern biotechnology has evolved from advances in cell and molecular biology;

2. Explain the essential steps needed to translate a scientific discovery into a commercial product;

3. Discuss how ethics and the views of society impact on the biotechnology industry;

4. Illustrate, using examples from medicinal chemistry, biomedical science and engineering, the contribution of these disciplines to biotechnology;

5. Demonstrate basic skills for effectively searching public literature databases, identifying relevant and reliable published information and effectively summarising content to support their writing;

6. Demonstrate basic skills in laboratory techniques and data analysis in at least one area of biotechnology research.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate knowledge of the fundamental techniques and the basic principles of molecular biology and recombinant DNA technology that are required for biotechnology;

2. Demonstrate an understanding of the applications and impact of biotechnology in the areas of agriculture, medicine, and industry;

3. Assess and manage occupational health and safety issues related to biotechnology activities in the laboratory, and in environmental and industrial settings;

4. Demonstrate understanding of the basic concepts of biotechnology business, intellectual property rights, and the regulatory framework governing the biotechnology industry;

5. Apply knowledge of the fundamental ethical and regulatory issues surrounding the biotechnology field;

6. Communicate biotechnology findings effectively in the form of oral and written scientific reports.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Discuss the moral and ethical principles that are relevant to medicine and biotechnology;

2. Explain, with examples, how bioethical principles are applied in law and policy;

3. Evaluate current dilemmas in biotechnology on the basis of moral and ethical principles;

4. Describe the legal framework and intellectual property laws relevant to commercialisation of biotechnology;

5. Identify and describe the relevant regulatory agencies that govern biotechnology;

6. Find relevant published sources and extract key facts and concepts to support their written and oral arguments;

7. Communicate effectively both as an individual and collaboratively in a group.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Discuss basic principles of recombinant DNA technology;

2. Select and apply practical techniques to achieve a range of experimental outcomes in molecular biology;

3. Give examples of the applications of recombinant DNA technology in medical and industrial settings;

4. Describe the use of biological databases for data storage;

5. Demonstrate skill in data mining;

6. Present, analyse and interpret experimental data.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Discuss the buffering mechanisms that operate in biological systems;

2. Recognise the role of non-covalent interactions in the maintenance of tertiary and quaternary conformation of biological macromolecules;

3. Explain the connection between protein structure and function;

4. Discuss strategies for the isolation and purification of proteins from biological samples;

5. Discuss the principles of storage and transmission of genetic information and describe control mechanisms which operate at the level of gene expression;

6. Use spectrophotometric methods to assay biological molecules in solution;

7. Analyse and interpret laboratory data and present in an appropriate format.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Explain the mechanisms involved in the storage and processing of metabolic fuels;

2. Discuss mechanisms for control of metabolic reaction sequences;

3. Describe the specialised metabolic role of various tissues;

4. Explain how metabolic processes are integrated and regulated;

5. Demonstrate advanced laboratory skills;

6. Collect, interpret and present experimental data in an accessible and appropriate format.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate the ability to identify plant species of agricultural importance;

2. Demonstrate good understanding of the principles involved in crop production and methods for crop improvement;

3. Apply specialised knowledge on important factors affecting crop growth and yield to achieve sustainable production of important tropical crops;

4. Analyse, interpret and present scientific data effectively.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Describe the structure of the biotechnology industry, both in Australia and globally;

2. Describe the pathways from discovery science that lead to innovation and commercialisation of biotechnology innovations;

3. Explain the critical role of intellectual property in the commercialisation of biotechnology;

4. Assess the potential for commercial development of a specific biotechnology innovation;

5. Systematically build and validate academic arguments by critically deconstructing relevant published research, working both independently and as part of a team;

6. Demonstrate an approach to learning and professional development based on self-evaluation and personal responsibility.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Discuss food as a habitat for micro-organisms;

2. Describe micro-organisms characteristic to the food industry and their roles in food production, food spoilage and food-borne illnesses;

3. Explain principles involved in microbiological spoilage of food, microbial control, and methods of preserving foods;

4. Recognise the importance of microbiological food criteria and HACCP systems for maintaining food safety in industry;

5. Discuss the use of microorganisms in industrial processes, and providing examples representing the breadth of these applications;

6. Describe the principles and applications of batch and continuous fermentation processes;

7. Describe the application of industrial control systems such as SCADA for microbial fermentations.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Explain how microbes cause disease, with particular emphasis on bacterial and viral pathogenicity;

2. Discuss the epidemiology of infectious disease;

3. Discuss the role of chemotherapy and the importance of drug resistance in the treatment of infectious disease;

4. Describe the role of microorganisms in selected infectious diseases associated with the different organ systems;

5. Discuss relevant diagnostic techniques used in clinical microbiology laboratories;

6. Describe and perform techniques used in diagnostic serology;

7. Demonstrate competence in laboratory procedures for handling and processing microbiological specimens.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Discuss principles of microbial ecology, recognising the role of micro-organisms as a mixed flora;

2. Diagram the role of micro-organisms in biogeochemical nutrient cycles;

3. Discuss the role of different micro-organisms in air, water environments, and soils, predicting the effects of changes in environmental parameters;

4. Describe how micro-organisms can cause pollution and the use of micro-organisms as indicators of pollution;

5. Discuss the role of micro-organisms in sewage treatment and composting;

6. Explain how micro-organisms can be exploited in bioremediation;

7. Demonstrate the use of molecular and traditional methods for detection and identification of micro-organisms.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Describe a range of cellular signalling mechanisms;

2. Explain endocrine control of cellular processes;

3. Discuss the dysfunction of cell signalling mechanisms in several common disease states;

4. Discuss the role of biochemical and spectroscopic techniques in the diagnosis of disease;

5. Plan and execute complex biochemical laboratory procedures and interpret data acquired;

6. Demonstrate basic competence in the safe handling of hazardous biological materials.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Discuss the molecular basis of a wide range of techniques for gene manipulation, and genomic and proteomic analysis;

2. Apply their knowledge to the pursuit of current scientific problems in industry, medicine and research;

3. Critically evaluate a variety of approaches to a particular scientific or industrial problem;

4. Demonstrate proficiency in a wide range of techniques for gene manipulation and in the interpretation of data acquired by these techniques;

5. Demonstrate advanced scientific writing skills.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Describe and explain information content and its flow in biological systems, and also the processes related to the flow;

2. Use bioinformatics software and computer models;

3. Analyse and interpret simple bioinformation data sets;

4. Demonstrate understanding of the theoretical basis of mining bioinformation.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate knowledge of current issues and technologies in plant biotechnology;

2. Demonstrate clear understanding of the techniques involved in plant tissue culture;

3. Design constructs to alter the expression of specific genes;

4. Demonstrate understanding of the various strategies involved in the creation of existing plant transgenic crops;

5. Appreciate the potential role of genetic manipulation to produce novel plant products of potential economic importance;

6. Exhibit skills in analysis, interpretation and presentation of scientific data.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Design and conduct experiments;

2. Identify, use and critically evaluate research literature;

3. Conduct interdisciplinary projects composed of chemistry and pharmacology;

4. Implement safe working practices with chemicals, radio-isotopes, and biological materials;

5. Make oral presentations and write reports covering both chemistry and pharmacology.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Critically review the scientific literature that underpins the selected area of biotechnology research;

2. Undertake a supervised research project in an area of biotechnology and contribute to project design and management;

3. Apply appropriate laboratory techniques, research methodologies and data analysis methods to collect, interpret and report the findings;

4. Effectively present the research and findings orally showing a firm grasp of the area;

5. Analyse the research in the context of the discipline area and report the findings in an extended written report.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Critically review scientific literature in an applied area of biotechnology;

2. Research, analyse and report on the translation of basic research towards a commercial product;

3. Recognise the breadth of analytical and data analysis techniques and their applicability to biotechnology research;

4. Apply analytical and data analysis techniques relevant to the biotechnology industry;

5. Effectively communicate concepts in biotechnology both in writing and orally.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate an understanding of experimental design and sampling methods that are relevant to their research project;

2. Demonstrate an understanding of the impacts of resource limitation on experimental design and implementation;

3. Critically analyse articles from the scientific literature and use this ability to enhance the quality of their own written work;

4. Express themselves clearly and effectively to a scientific audience;

5. Write and manage assessment tasks expeditiously and competently.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Discuss the features of atomic structure and the construction of the periodic table of elements;

2. Interpret relationships between electronic structure and bonding;

3. Explore a wide range of molecular structures and investigate aspects of stereochemistry such as isomerism and chirality;

4. Distinguish between ideal gases and real gases;

5. Recognise factors which give rise to polarity and its relationship to intermolecular bonding;

6. Define the first and second laws of thermodynamics and apply enthalpy and entropy;

7. Discuss factors which give rise to chemical kinetics;

8. Apply acid-base chemistry in the understanding of dynamic equilibria;

9. Foster the acquisition of practical skills by exploiting an inquiry-based approach to the chemistry laboratory experience;

10. Communicate chemistry, and discuss the social and environmental responsibility of chemists in the global community.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate a basic understanding of chemical nomenclature;

2. Describe the classification, bonding, structure, properties and reactions of a wide range of organic compounds according to the functional groups they contain;

3. Describe the nature of biological and synthetic macromolecules such as proteins, carbohydrates, and polymers;

4. Discuss the properties of transition elements;

5. Describe a wide range of coordination compounds and their structures, reactions and applications in both synthetic materials and biological systems;

6. Describe how spectroscopy can be used to investigate molecular structure;

7. Foster practical skills by exploiting an inquiry-based approach to the chemistry laboratory experience;

8. Communicate chemistry, and discuss the social and environmental responsibility of chemists in the global community.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Employ quantum mechanics to describe features of atomic structure and the construction of the periodic table of elements;

2. Interpret the relationships between electronic structure and bonding exploring a wide range of molecular structures;

3. Investigate aspects of stereochemistry such as isomerism and chirality;

4. Distinguish differences between ideal gases and real gases;

5. Recognise factors which give rise to polarity and studying how this effects intermolecular bonding;

6. Define the first and second laws of thermodynamics and apply enthalpy and entropy;

7. Discuss factors which give rise to chemical kinetics;

8. Apply acid-base chemistry in the understanding of dynamic equilibria;

9. Foster the acquisition of practical skills by exploiting an inquiry-based approach to the chemistry laboratory experience;

10. Formulate hypotheses and design chemical experiments to synthesise and collect unique data using a range of sophisticated apparatus and technologies;

11. Apply recognised methods for interpreting chemical data;

12. Communicate chemistry, and discuss the social and environmental responsibility of chemists in the global community.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate a basic understanding of chemical nomenclature;

2. Describe the classification, bonding, structure, properties and reactions of a wide range of organic compounds according to the functional groups they contain;

3. Describe the nature of biological and synthetic macromolecules such as proteins, carbohydrates and polymers;

4. Discuss the properties of transition elements;

5. Describe a wide range of coordination compounds and their structures, reactions and applications in both synthetic materials and biological systems;

6. Foster the acquisition of practical skills by exploiting an inquiry-based approach to the chemistry laboratory experience;

7. Formulate hypotheses and design chemical experiments to synthesise and collect unique data using a range of sophisticated apparatus and technologies;

8. Apply recognised methods for interpreting chemical data;

9. Communicate chemistry, and discuss the social and environmental responsibility of chemists in the global community.

On completion of this unit students will have gained an understanding of the key principles involved in chemical analysis; be able to explain the principles of atomic and molecular spectroscopies and be able to discuss the instrumentation commonly employed in UV/VIS, infrared and atomic spectroscopies; have gained an appreciation for the different instrumental components used in different techniques; be able to explain the principles of chromatography and its application in a variety of instrumental techniques including GC, HPLC, molecular exclusion chromatography, ion chromatography and electrophoresis; be able to suggest appropriate techniques and conditions to separate particular mixtures using these techniques; be able to explain the basis of electroanalytical methods and discuss the different classification of electroanalytical methods; appreciate the benefits offered by electroanalytical methods of analysis; have further developed their practical skills, particularly chemical analysis using analytical instrumentation, data handling and report writing; have further developed their problem solving skills and their ability to work both independently and in small groups.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Classify, and state the sources of, water pollutants including oxygen-consuming wastes, disease-causing agents, synthetic organic compounds, radioactive materials and heat;

2. Assess water quality by the measurement of the various water parameters;

3. Discuss the chemical processes which occur in natural waters, soils and sediments;

4. Describe the principles of air pollution;

5. State the major sources, fate and effects of pollutants;

6. Discuss tools and approaches for preventing environmental pollution;

7. Demonstrate competence in basic analytical techniques employed for environmental chemical analysis, including atmospheric monitoring and sampling methods.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Discuss the reactivity of various functional groups and write equations for these reactions;

2. Suggest reaction pathways for the synthesis of simple organic molecules from readily available materials and write reactions for these pathways;

3. Describe the mechanisms of SN1, SN2, E1 and E2 reactions and predict the conditions which favour these reactions;

4. Write reaction pathways, and suggest favourable conditions, for the synthesis of simple pharmaceuticals;

5. Explain the principles of Infrared, Mass Spectrometry and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance spectrometry and determine the structure of organic and organometallic molecules using these methods;

6. Synthesise organic compounds in the laboratory and use analytical instruments to determine the purity and structure of synthesised products.

On completion of this unit students will be able to: