ENV505C

Environmental research frameworks

Offered subject to approval

Dr Peter Cock (Coordinator), Dr John Grindrod, Mr Frank Fisher, Dr Sharron Pfueller

4 Points
* 2 hours per month
* Full year
* Clayton
* Prerequisites: none

Objectives To enhance appreciation of the methods of interdisciplinary research, specifically to formulate clear objectives grounded in a coherent interdisciplinary conceptual and methodological framework, adapt and integrate research design within the practical constraints affecting interdisciplinary research performance, monitor and analyse the impact of personal responses and intra-team social interactions and critically review the research and research process for its social constructions.

Synopsis This is a core subject for the Master of Environmental Science by research combined with coursework. It comprises the planning and reviewing phases of the various facets of team and individually based approaches to environmental research. An inter- and transdisciplinary perspective is required to bring together the various disciplinary insights necessary for investigation of multidisciplinary environmental issues. Throughout the course four aspects are emphasised: appropriate research design to elucidate a selected environmental issue, review of project management to achieve specified objectives, effective management and review of team dynamics, and the social construction of the research tasks.

Assessment Research proposals (1500 words): 25%
* Team dynamics report (1000 words): 30%
* Epistemological analysis (1500 words): 30%
* Symposium presentation: 5%
* Team performance: 10%

Recommended texts

Much reading is to be handed out and derived from the student's own research, however, a primary general reference is:
Thompson M and others Uncertainty on a Himalayan scale Ethnographica, 1986