Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit examines the principles and challenges of managing threatened species and ecological communities (EC's), drawing from global examples, but with a practical investigation of the Endangered Banksia Woodlands of the Swan Coastal Plain. In interactive lectures and discussion sessions students will learn how and why particular management decisions were taken, will analyse successes and failures, and will understand how ‘best practice' can be achieved via mechanisms such as the IUCN green listing process.

In close collaboration with the Western Australian Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA), and relevant UWA researchers, students will conduct field research in Banksia woodlands near Perth. In so doing they will learn techniques for mammal surveys, population modelling, weed assessment, and assigning condition indices to vegetation, and will use these insights in a series of written assignments.

The unit aims to bring students together with local experts and organizations involved in threatened species and communities management to enhance their expertise and employability, to contribute to long-term data collection within an iconic threatened ecological community, and to develop students' critical thinking and written and verbal communication skills.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 2UWA (Perth)Face to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) demonstrate competence in fieldwork and analytical skills that relate to threatened species or communities management; (2) demonstrate awareness of global examples of threatened species management with a focus on recent research and initiatives; and (3) conduct relevant research on a threatened species to compile an IUCN green list assessment.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) a portfolio of short assignments based on a field visit, computer laboratory and engagement with a visiting expert; (2) a verbal presentation describing and critiquing a long-term management program for a threatened species; and (3) a written report detailing an assessment against IUCN criteria for whether a threatened species meets standards for green listing. Further information is available in the unit outline.

To pass this unit, a student must: (a) achieve an overall mark of 50 per cent or higher for the unit; and (b) achieve the requisite requirements(s) or a mark of 50 per cent or greater, whichever is higher and specified in the unit outline, for the a written report detailing an assessment against IUCN criteria for whether a threatened species meets standards for green listing component.

Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Dr Pieter Poot
Unit rules
Prerequisites
enrolment in
Master of Biological Science (72520)
or Master of Science (70630)
or Bachelor of Science (Honours) (BH004)
Contact hours
One interactive seminar per week including student-led interviews with conservation practitioners, formal presentations, and training workshops. Fieldwork: Up to 15 hours in total, with flexibility in the timing of student-led fieldwork.
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.