Studying online (if an online offering is shown below)
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
An in-depth understanding of the genetic basis of phenotypic variation is critical to deciphering evolutionary forces and managing extant natural and cross-bred populations. This unit evaluates how genotype, environment, and management interact to shape traits, with applications in biodiversity conservation and sustainable agriculture.
Throughout the unit's interactive learning activities, you will gain hands-on experience in generating and analysing real-world data sets and applying principles in quantitative genetics and statistics to discover and explore phenotype-genotype associations. You will acquire skills in emerging technologies to generate, apply, and analyse genetic variation, such as genome editing, genomics, bioinformatics, and evolutionary biology.
The unit requires weekly engagement with the learning materials, and it is designed to build critical thinking and your sense of agency in the management of vital genetic resources.
- Credit
- 6 points
- Offering
Availability Location Mode First year of offer Not available in 2025 UWA (Perth) On-campus - Details for undergraduate courses
- Level 3 elective
- Outcomes
Students are able to (1) integrate concepts and methodologies of advanced quantitative genetics to solve problems in genetic management programs; (2) demonstrate technical skills in collecting, analysing, and interpreting genetic variation and phenotype-genotype data using appropriate tools and techniques; (3) critically assess genetic resource management strategies (including breeding and biotechnology), for their effectiveness and environmental implications in diverse contexts; and (4) communicate genetic concepts and findings clearly to both specialists and non-specialist audiences, demonstrating autonomy and professional integrity.
- Assessment
Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) reports; (2) quizzes; and (3) 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)
- Dr Judith Lichtenzveig
- Unit rules
- Contact hours
- 1 hr lectures, 2 hrs interactive workshops, 3 hrs practicals
- 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.
Face to face
Predominantly face-to-face. On campus attendance required to complete this unit. May have accompanying resources online.
Online flexible
100% Online Unit. NO campus face-to-face attendance is required to complete this unit. All study requirements are online only. Unit is asynchronous delivery, with NO requirement for students to participate online at specific times.
Online timetabled
100% Online Unit. NO campus face-to-face attendance is required to complete this unit. All study requirements are online only. Unit includes some synchronous components, with a requirement for students to participate online at specific times.
Online Restricted
Not available for self-enrolment. Students access this mode by contacting their student office through AskUWA. 100% Online Unit.
NO campus face-to-face attendance. All study and assessment requirements are online only. Unit includes some timetabled activities, with a requirement for students to participate online at specific times. In exceptional cases (noted in the Handbook) students may be required to participate in face-to-face laboratory classes when a return to UWA’s Crawley campus becomes possible in order to be awarded a final grade.
External
No attendance or regular contact is required, and all study requirements are completed either via correspondence and/or online submission.
Off-campus
Regular attendance is not required, but student attends the institution face to face on an agreed schedule for purposes of supervision and/or instruction.
Multi-mode
Multiple modes of delivery. Unit includes a mix of online and on-campus study requirements. On campus attendance for some activities is required to complete this unit.