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

Environmental Genomics focuses on the ecological questions that can be addressed with DNA sequencing technologies. The unit is composed of one lecture each week delivered online and a workshop delivered both live and online. Students will be taught the technical details of applying environmental genomics technology to example ecological or management problems. The computational skills required to analyse environmental DNA sequence data will be taught through a series of classes on basic bioinformatics, so students will have to have their own computer with administrator access for this portion of the course. The ecological theory on which interpretation of environmental DNA data is based will be taught. Example studies using Environmental Genomics for questions on the ecology of Australia and beyond will be presented by guest lecturers or the co-ordinator. The unit is assessed through online quizzes, a personalised essay on a topic within Environmental Genomics of interest to the student, and a final exam

Credit
6 points
Offering
AvailabilityLocationMode
Not available in 2024UWA (Perth)Face to face
Not available in 2024OnlineOnline Restricted
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Honours option in Conservation Biology; Zoology [Bachelor of Science (Honours)]
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) plan an effective ecological experiment that will involve DNA sequencing analysis; (2) conduct effective biological sampling leading to appropriate DNA samples for analysis; (3) generate amplicons by PCR appropriate for the ecological question; (4) process amplicons to create a DNA library for high throughput sequencing; (5) conduct bioinformatic analysis of a simple DNA library; and (6) analyse results from DNA sequencing.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) essay on a specific topic; (2) online tests during the course (2); and (3) Final online exam. 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 Simon Jarman
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Successful completion of
level 2 Unit(s) in genetics or equivalent
Approved quota: 20—academic merit.
Contact hours
Block teaching of lectures and fieldwork over two weeks. Block teaching of bioinformatic analysis, biological data analysis and group presentation over 1 week, 8 weeks after initial block.
lectures x 15hrs, fieldwork x 8hrs, lab work x 24hrs, analysis x 40hrs, prep delivery & group presentation x 15hrs, essay prep x 48hrs
  • 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.