Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives On the completion of this subject students will have explored in depth, particular fields of zoological enquiry; understand the basic principles underlying the field of study; appreciate the important current trends in research in the field of study; develop practical skills required for making observations (including field work) and designing experiments using relevant animal material; develop skills in data evaluation and interpretation; develop skills in writing scientific reports; gain experience in oral presentation of scientific information.
Synopsis This subject consists of any two of four units. `Research methods in biology' deals with the philosophy of science, writing and assessing scientific papers and reports, and the analysis and interpretation of biological data with particular emphasis on the design and analysis of experiments. Students wishing to take BIO4000 (Honours) are expected to do this unit. `Aquatic ecology' deals with marine and freshwater ecosystems; particular emphasis is placed on the structure and dynamics of communities of coastal marine habitats, estuaries, lakes, wetlands and streams, including the impact of humans. The practical component can be done either as a six-day field course to Queenscliff Marine Station in February or as equivalent time in the laboratory and on excursions during semester. `Palaeobiology' deals with the major evolutionary patterns of vertebrate animals, emphasising Australia, for the past 500 million years. It is aimed at providing a current and detailed introduction to this topic by making use of staff from several institutions in Australia, who are recognised experts in their fields. `Mammalian biology' deals with the mammalian fauna of Australia in particular, examines various areas of research on mammals, the results of this research and the likely future research developments in these areas, methods that are used to assess population viability and the kinds of information that is needed to assess management status. The practical component involves half day drips to Healesville Sanctuary and two weekend field trips to the Strathbogie plateau.
Assessment Examinations (5 hours): 60% + Practical work/projects: 40%