BIO1042 - Life in the environment

Overview

This unit explores the biosphere, environmental conditions and their effects on animals, plants and communities. You will examine the responses of organisms to environmental conditions; interactions between plants and animals; environmental genetics and microbiology; management of biological resources; and an introduction to ecology and the impact of humans on the environment. You will undertake self-directed learning through the online environment. These online activities, readings and instructional videos will be complemented by face-to-face workshops where they will collaborate with peers and teaching staff to deepen their understanding of the biological concepts introduced each week. You will gain hands-on experience and develop experimental and analytical skills in the laboratory environment. This unit is ideally paired with BIO1011 and/or BIO1022.

Offerings

S2-01-CLAYTON-BLENDED

Contacts

Chief Examiner(s)

Professor Damian Dowling

Unit Coordinator(s)

Dr Thomas Hiscox

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, you should be able to:

Demonstrate an understanding of biodiversity, evolutionary concepts and processes, aspects of the evolution of the Australian biota, the nature of biogeochemical cycles, and human impacts on the biosphere;

Formulate hypotheses, collect experimental data and demonstrate proficiency in interpreting your own results;

Demonstrate proficiency in communicating biological results through a range of formats (written, oral, multimedia);

Self-evaluate and reflect upon the development of teamwork and communication skills;

Apply practical techniques and tools to conduct an investigation in the laboratory, field or virtual environment;

Work and learn independently and collaboratively while exercising personal, professional and social responsibility that recognises the importance of practising science sustainably, ethically and safely in society.

Teaching approach

Active learning

Assessment

1 - Content quizzes

2 - Laboratory assessments

3 - Major assessment tasks

Scheduled and non-scheduled teaching activities

Laboratories

Lectures

Workshops

Workload requirements

Workload

Learning resources

Required resources

Technology resources

Other unit costs

Costs are indicative and subject to change.

Adequate clothing and protective footwear (closed) appropriate for field work and working outdoors MUST be worn at all times. The cost of these materials should be considered when enrolling in this unit.

Availability in areas of study

Ecology and conservation biology
Environmental science
Genetics and genomics
Microbiology
Physiology
Plant sciences
Zoology