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 explores the origins and definitions of life, and the processes that led to today's incredibly diverse array of organisms, from viruses to vertebrates. Unifying patterns and concepts are demonstrated, such as the structure and function of cells, how cells reproduce, how traits particular to a species are passed to new generations, and how the inheritance of DNA is the basis of evolution and the formation of species. The unit appeals to students wishing to begin their training as a biological scientist and who are interested in learning about topics that are challenging and fascinating our leading researchers.
- Credit
- 6 points
- Offering
(see Timetable) Availability Location Mode Semester 1 UWA (Perth) Face to face Semester 1 Online Online timetabled Semester 1 Albany Face to face - Outcomes
Students are able to (1) recall—(a) the current understanding of the origins and diversity of life; (b) the organisation and basic functioning of cells; and (c) basic evolutionary and genetic principles; (2) demonstrate understanding in the principles of experimental design and analysis for simple laboratory experiments; (3) demonstrate proficiency in the handling of biological material and in the use of equipment in a safe and responsible manner; (4) communicate the results of biological experiments in the form of a written report; and (5) apply critical thinking skills to the interpretation of results from biological experiments.
- Assessment
Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) exam; (2) lab quizzes; and (3) lab 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 Jennifer Kelley and Dr Matthew Navarro
- Contact hours
- lectures: 1 or 2 hours per week
practicals: up to 3 hours per week (8 per semester) - Text
-
Raven PH, Johnson GB, Mason KA, Losos J, Duncan T, Biology edn 12E, McGraw-Hill 2020
- 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.