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 concept of global change and its drivers, and focuses on how global change affects the ocean ecosystem. Students learn about ocean warming, acidification, eutrophication, increased UVB radiation, habitat modification and the emission of pollutants, as well as the complex interactions between them. The impacts on the ocean ecosystem are examined both globally and regionally, with particular attention to Australia, as well as other sensitive regions. The unit also evaluates different strategies to mitigate the impacts of global change on ocean ecosystems. Students are given the opportunity to conduct a research project in small groups, as well as to participate in debates and colloquiums that allow a better grasp on the uncertainties at forecasting the trajectories of marine ecosystems under global change.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1UWA (Perth)Face to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) understand the concept of global change and differentiate this process from previous processes of change in the Earth system; (2) analyse the complex interactions between different drivers of global change; (3) assess the uncertainties in forecasts of future trajectories of marine ecosystems under global change; (4) compare the relative impact of global change in different marine regions and extract the traits of these regions that render them more or less vulnerable; and (5) analyse the effectiveness of actions to mitigate the impacts of global change in the marine environment.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) quizzes; (2) facilitated class discussion; and (3) research 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 Thomas Wernberg
Unit rules
Prerequisites
72530 Master of Environmental Science
or 72520 Master of Biological Science
or 71580 Master of Biotechnology
or 71570 Master of Geographic Information Science
or BH004 Bachelor of Science (Honours)
or 74540 Master of Marine Biology
Contact hours
7 hours per week for 6 weeks
  • 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.