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 allows students to gain a unique perspective on contemporary geographical issues in a host country for up to three weeks under the supervision of academic staff. Host countries are likely to include Malaysia, Hong Kong, Indonesia and the United States. The unit incorporates enquiry in both physical and human geography to provide insights into patterns and processes underpinning change in a range of different settings, including natural environments, metropolitan regions and rural areas. Central themes include environmental change, conservation and management; urban development and quality of life; agrarian change and rural development; and spatial and development policy. Through the field trip, students gain in-depth insights into the complexity of geographical issues from the viewpoint of local residents and other stakeholders. In addition, they work in small groups to undertake a research project that develops methodological skills and offers the opportunity to examine a geographical issue of interest in depth. The unit includes a series of lectures prior to the field trip to set the broad environmental, economic, social and political context within which the students are immersed.

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 (1) show how key concepts in physical and human geography can be applied in diverse international settings; (2) demonstrate an understanding of the complex linkages between natural systems and human activities, and the associated implications for development, environmental management and planning policy; (3) critically analyse academic theory and field-based experiences to generate nuanced and sensitive insights into local patterns and processes of geographical change; and (4) apply quantitative and/or qualitative methods to undertake a small group-based research on a geographical issue of interest.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) an essay (30 per cent); (2) a group presentation during the field work (20 per cent); and (3) an individual report (50 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 Coordinator(s)
Dr Linda Robson
Unit rules
Prerequisites
48 points of prior undergraduate study at UWA and approval by Unit Coordinator
Approved quota: 25—approval by Unit Coordinator based on an expression of interest and including the results achieved in prior study.
Incidental fees
Incidental student fees and charges are costs incurred by students as part of their studies at UWA that are in addition to their tuition fees (further information is available here).
Participation in this unit will incur the following incidental fee(s):
International Field Trip (estimated cost - Estimated $3,000 for 12 nights).
Contact hours
Usually 5 x 2hr lectures prior to seven or eight day residential fieldwork overseas.
Note
The costs of travel, food and accommodation for the field trip are borne by the student. Advice and support on applying for UWA grants or other means of financial assistance will be given.
  • 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.