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 introduces students to the principles of agricultural research, and provides students exposure to the diversity of investigation methods relevant to agricultural science. Students are given the opportunity to experience these research methods being applied to ‘real world' agricultural science case studies. It is delivered through a mix of on-line and a face-to face sessions, which includes field visits. Module 1 focuses on the establishment of context and the formulation of research questions and hypotheses for testing, and examines potential tools available to test these hypotheses. Working in groups with a mentor, students will be exposed to selected agricultural research projects, and will be asked to critique these examples in Module 2. Students have the opportunity to conduct their own agricultural science research project in Module 3 when they focus on data collection and analysis at a selected site, and will learn how best to communicate their findings. The face-to-face field data collection component may involve a field trip to various locations, including Albany and surrounds in the Great Southern Region.

Credit
6 points
Offering
AvailabilityLocationModeFirst year of offer
Not available in 2024
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) understand how research questions and hypotheses are developed and how appropriate methods are selected to test them; (2) evaluate the knowledge base around a selected research question; (3) demonstrate appropriate agricultural science data collection methods in the field; (4) demonstrate knowledge of the risks associated with undertaking agricultural science research, and how to minimise these risks; (5) analyse and map data using appropriate statistical and GIS approaches; and (6) communicate the findings of agricultural science research studies in an appropriate written form.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) literature review; (2) case study critique; and (3) scientific report. 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 Louise Barton
Unit rules
Prerequisites
enrolment in
the Master of Environmental Science (72530) and completion of 24 points
or 24 points credit.
Co-requisites
ENVT4421 Fundamentals of Environmental Management
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 accommodation and food expenses (estimated cost - $55 per day up to $275).
Contact hours
9 online interactive workshops resulting in 18 hours contact
field camp of 32 hours for face-to-face cohort
  • 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.