Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion, students will have the knowledge and skills to:

1. Pursue a sustained, guided critical investigation and evaluation of a topic relevant to the environment, society and/or sustainability.
   
2. Systematically identify relevant theory and concepts, relate these to appropriate methodology and/or evidence, analyse data using appropriate methods and tools, and draw appropriate evidence-based conclusions.
   
3. Critically evaluate their own work and results as well as published research. 
   
4. Communicate research concepts and results effectively in appropriate formats.

Work Integrated Learning

Fieldwork

Students may engage with WIL partners (internal/external) as a component of the course

Other Information

This course code is used for a variety of special topics classes offered to advanced environment and society students. The topics vary from semester to semester, and interested students should seek advice from the course convener. The specific assessment tasks will vary from topic to topic, but is likely to cover the disciplinary breadth of the Fenner School of Environment & Society. The topics for each semester will be listed on the FSES webpage during O-Week for the relevant semester, and students will also find there details (location or Zoom link) for an informational meeting held at 10:00 am on the first Monday of the semester. All interested students are invited to attend the meeting. Information about permission codes will be provided then.

Indicative Assessment

1. The nature and weightings of assessment items will be customised in negotiation with each student. An example of typical assessment is: (null) [LO null]
2. Development and presentation of a learning/research plan (15) [LO 1,2]
3. Final presentations or seminar (15 - 30 min) (15) [LO 3,4]
4. A summary paper or papers of 5000 words in total (6 units) or 8000 words in total (12 units) (70) [LO 1,2,3,4]

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

The expected workload will consist of approximately 130 hours per 6 units of enrolment.

Delivered as an intensive over two weeks, students should expect

• Approximately 80 hours face-to-face component from 9:00-17:00 comprising lectures, practicals and field excursions.
• Approximately 50 hours of self directed study which will include preparation for lectures, presentations and other assessment tasks.

Delivered as a semester long 12 week experience, students should expect

• 3 x 1 hour lectures plus 1 x 3 hour workshop per week (including some field based activities).
• 52 hours of self directed study which will include preparation for lectures, presentations and other assessment tasks.

Inherent Requirements

To complete this course, students may be required to participate in field or laboratory activities. In order to participate, students must be able to:

• Travel to the field location;
• Move through different natural environments, often navigating rough terrain, carrying sampling equipment and working in variable weather conditions;
• Move and manipulate laboratory equipment under direction;
• Monitor and manage their own health while studying and engaging with a small group of people in an isolated field location;
• Understand and respect the needs of other participants and act professionally throughout the trip.

For more information and requirements, please refer to the field trips information page.

Students who can provide evidence they are unable to meet this requirement may be able to choose other options or negotiate alternative participation and assessment requirements with the course convenor.

Requisite and Incompatibility

You will need to contact the Fenner School of Environment and Society to request a permission code to enrol in this course.

Prescribed Texts

Not applicable.

Areas of Interest

• Forestry
• Geography
• Human Ecology
• Interdisciplinary Studies - Sustainability
• Environmental Studies
• Policy Studies

Offerings, Dates and Class Summary Links