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 rich human ecology of the Pilbara region, with special emphasis on Indigenous and environmental issues, and their interface with the mining industry. A critical examination of the culture of extraction that has characterised the region since European contact forms the unit's conceptual centre of gravity. The overarching academic objective is to equip students with the skills necessary to become more informed and more reflective decision makers by introducing them to the economic, environmental and cultural complexities that underlie one of Australia's, and the world's, most dynamic and resource-rich regions.

Credit
6 points
Offering
AvailabilityLocationMode
Not available in 2024UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 2 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to understand and critically examine contemporary aspects of the Pilbara region, with an emphasis on Indigenous and environmental issues, and their interface with the mining industry. Case study project work focuses that understanding through a consideration of public policy, private enterprise initiatives, cultural practices, land use, heritage management, media ownership and operation, family formation, education and training, and social justice issues. Student projects are required to demonstrate a critical engagement with three of these foci.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) a literature review (20 per cent); (2) a reflective journal of residency (20 per cent); and (3) a research project (60 per cent). Further information is available in the unit outline.



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

Unit rules
Prerequisites
any Level 1 unit in Anthropology, Archaeology, Indigenous Studies
or Communication Studies.
or HIST1002 An Age of Violence: the Making of the Modern World, 1789–2010 plus, as a co-requisite, HIST1901 Environmental History
Approved quota: 20
Contact hours
workshops: 8 x 2 hours
  • 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.