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 helps students develop an understanding of how to collect and analyse data to characterise natural systems. Students are introduced to each step of the investigative process, starting from asking a scientific and sound question, developing a sampling strategy, collecting the data, analysing the data, testing the hypothesis and eventually drawing one or more conclusions. The unit uses team-based learning, in which the majority of class time is spent solving complex problems in teams.

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

Students are able to (1) appreciate why statistical analysis is crucial in the study of natural systems; (2) use statistics to determine if signals observed in the field are significant; (3) quantitatively describe the strength of a relationship between two variables measured in the field; (4) interpret temporal signals in data to aid understanding of forcing processes; (5) work closely with a team of peers to arrive at a superior engineering solution; and (6) clearly and concisely communicate the results of a project in oral and written forms.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) tests; (2) team project; and (3) a final examination. 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 Hongwei An
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Successful completion of level 1 18 points
and level 2 Unit(s) taken from the degree-specific MJD-ENGSC Engineering Science
MATH1002 Mathematical Methods 2
or MATH1012 Mathematical Theory and Methods
or MATX1012 Mathematical Theory and Methods
and CITS2401 Computer Analysis and Visualisation
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):
Field Trip (estimated cost - 100).
Contact hours
lectures: 3 hours per week
practical classes: 1 hour per week
Note
Enrolled students can access unit material via the LMS (Learning Management System).
  • 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.