This course explores concepts in biodiversity science that form essential knowledge for ecologically sustainable resource management. You will study the key factors that influence how biota are distributed and ecosystems function, and learn about the consequences for sustainability when balanced systems are disrupted by natural events or human activities. Your practical biodiversity survey skills will be developed through experience across a range of ecosystems (including marine, coastal and inland systems, in both modified and natural landscapes).
This course includes weekly lectures and practical sessions that involve workshops, laboratory classes, and field trips to reserves, farms and the Fenner School's existing long-term research sites in the Canberra region. There is an optional 5-day field trip to the ANU Kioloa coastal campus (approximately $400 for transport, accommodation and meals) where you will learn to survey and identify both flora and fauna.
This course develops fundamental skills that are necessary for graduates seeking careers in natural resource management and other areas of environmental science. It also provides important background for those wishing to pursue careers in any field that potentially impacts on biodiversity, e.g. environmental policy and planning.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, students will have the knowledge and skills to:
On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to:- Identify key factors that influence the distribution of biota.
- Demonstrate understanding about the complex linkages between abiotic and biotic components of ecosystems.
- Identify and apply appropriate techniques for measuring biodiversity in a range of different environments and circumstances.
- Develop and test hypotheses about the impacts of human activities on biodiversity.
- Effectively interpret and critique data about biodiversity using a range of analytical and communication techniques to a range of audiences.
Other Information
Field trip fees of approximately $400 will be applicable to participation in this course (payment to ANU Science Shop) for students who elect to complete the optional 5-day field trip.Please note: students who are concurrently enrolled in ENVS6218 will not need to pay additional field trip fees.
Indicative Assessment
Assessment will be based on:- Practical exercises (20%) [LO 1-5]
- Research report (30%) [LO 2-5]
- Poster or video (20%) [LO 1,4,5]
- Exam (30%) [LO 1,2,3,5]
The ANU uses Turnitin to enhance student citation and referencing techniques, and to assess assignment submissions as a component of the University's approach to managing Academic Integrity. While the use of Turnitin is not mandatory, the ANU highly recommends Turnitin is used by both teaching staff and students. For additional information regarding Turnitin please visit the ANU Online website.
Workload
130 hours including up to 60 contact hours in lectures, tutorials, practicals and field trips, and self-study time.Requisite and Incompatibility
Prescribed Texts
There is no prescribed text. Reading material will be provided throughout the course.Assumed Knowledge
ENVS6218 Environmental Science Field School is recommended.Specialisations
Fees
Tuition fees are for the academic year indicated at the top of the page.
If you are a domestic graduate coursework or international student you will be required to pay tuition fees. Tuition fees are indexed annually. Further information for domestic and international students about tuition and other fees can be found at Fees.
- Student Contribution Band:
- 2
- Unit value:
- 6 units
If you are an undergraduate student and have been offered a Commonwealth supported place, your fees are set by the Australian Government for each course. At ANU 1 EFTSL is 48 units (normally 8 x 6-unit courses). You can find your student contribution amount for each course at Fees. Where there is a unit range displayed for this course, not all unit options below may be available.
| Units | EFTSL |
|---|---|
| 6.00 | 0.12500 |
Course fees
- Domestic fee paying students
| Year | Fee |
|---|---|
| 2019 | $3840 |
- International fee paying students
| Year | Fee |
|---|---|
| 2019 | $5460 |
Offerings, Dates and Class Summary Links
ANU utilises MyTimetable to enable students to view the timetable for their enrolled courses, browse, then self-allocate to small teaching activities / tutorials so they can better plan their time. Find out more on the Timetable webpage.
Class summaries, if available, can be accessed by clicking on the View link for the relevant class number.
Second Semester
| Class number | Class start date | Last day to enrol | Census date | Class end date | Mode Of Delivery | Class Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8644 | 22 Jul 2019 | 29 Jul 2019 | 31 Aug 2019 | 25 Oct 2019 | In Person | View |