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

Achieving solutions to the problems currently facing our oceans involves enhanced governance of human activities based on scientific evidence, and taking into account economic, geo-political and socio-cultural factors. This unit explores the concepts of good governance, justice, and ethics as well as the role of culture, economics, law and policy. The Indian Ocean region includes a variety of cultures (including Indigenous and traditional peoples) and all major legal systems of the world, which are explored in this unit. The region also includes countries at different stages of development creating various economic and developmental priorities. Students analyse and evaluate key oceans policy initiatives with a focus on achieving the goals of the blue economy. Governance frameworks do not operate in isolation and therefore this unit will involve critically analysing how well science and technology are embedded and whether they contribute effectively to a governance framework.

Credit
6 points
Offering
AvailabilityLocationMode
Not available in 2025UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Honours option in Law and Society [Bachelor of Arts (Honours)]
  • Honours option in Business Law [Bachelor of Commerce (Honours)]
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) demonstrate an understanding of the concept and principles of good governance, as well as the key tools and elements of law and policy; (2) demonstrate a detailed knowledge of the international legal system and its principles, in particular, the Law of the Sea; (3) display a sophisticated understanding of the interface between governance, law, policy, science and technology; (4) demonstrate an enquiring, critical and creative approach to oceans governance; and (5) demonstrate an appreciation of the interdisciplinary nature of oceans law and its interconnectedness with the physical and social sciences, policy, politics and economics.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) in-class assessments; (2) report; and (3) research paper. 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 Erika Techera
  • 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.
  • Visit the Essential Textbooks website to see if any textbooks are required for this Unit. The website is updated regularly so content may change. Students are recommended to purchase Essential Textbooks, but a limited number of copies of all Essential Textbooks are held in the Library in print, and as an ebook where possible. Recommended readings for the unit can be accessed in Unit Readings directly through the Learning Management System (LMS).
  • 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.