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

There are three primary academic objectives of the unit: (1) to provide experiential learning in a research group atmosphere. Students become part of the Centre for Evolutionary Biology (CEB) and bring their ideas to fruition through discussion with the members of the group and their mentor. They participate in fortnightly CEB meetings where established researchers present their data and answer questions from the group. The students see how science is a collegial and constructive process; (2) to learn the generic skills of scientific thinking, hypothesis testing, data handling and scientific communication; and (3) to develop specialised knowledge of the practical considerations of research in their area of study—learning (but not limited to) techniques such as biometry, behavioural analysis, meta-analysis, quantitative/molecular genetics/genomics or comparative analyses. The areas of theory covered depend on the project but could include natural/sexual selection, sperm competition, immunity, sensory ecology, conservation biology and population/quantitative genetics. Projects that focus on a range of study organisms, including terrestrial, marine and freshwater vertebrate and invertebrate groups may be available for practical work.

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

Students are able to (1) formulate and express scientific ideas; (2) think critically about how to test evolutionary hypotheses; and (3) analyse and present ideas and data with clarity and accuracy..

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) attendance and contribution to CEB meetings; (2) short peer-reviewed paper; and (3) seminar presentation. Further information is available in the unit outline.



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

Unit Coordinator(s)
Professor Jon Evans & Associate Professor Joe Tomkins
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Enrolment in
72520 Master of Biological Science (ID 165)
or HON-ZOOLY Zoology (ID 1393)
Advisable prior study
ANIM3362 Evolutionary Processes
or ANIM3365 Behavioural Ecology
Contact hours
150 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.