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 builds on knowledge of ecological processes acquired at Level 2. The main academic objectives of this unit are to (1) develop a deeper understanding of ecological processes, both biotic and abiotic, across marine, freshwater and terrestrial ecosystems; (2) develop a deeper understanding of the interconnected and synergistic nature of ecological processes; (3) be able to apply this deeper understanding when evaluating and interpreting contemporary environmental change; and (4) be able to design appropriate scientific research programs to address contemporary environmental problems.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 2UWA (Perth)Face to face
Semester 2AlbanyFace to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) have an advanced understanding of ecological processes across terrestrial, aquatic and marine ecosystems; (2) be aware of the interacting effects of environmental change on ecological processes (e.g. synergistic multiple effects of climate change, diversity loss, overfishing, etc.); (3) have the ability to think at different levels of integration, from population, community, landscape, stable isotope ecology and ecosystem ecology; and (4) have the capacity for analytical thinking and for the development of logical arguments to design scientific research to evaluate the interacting causes of environmental change.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) a two-hour written examination and (2) an assignment on laboratories, research project and discussion groups. 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)
Associate Professor Grzegorz Skrzypek
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Successful completion of
one Unit(s) ENVT2250 Ecology (ID 1228)
or Unit(s) ENVT2221 Global Climate Change and Biodiversity (ID 1293)
or Unit(s) SCIE2204 Marine Systems (ID 1524)
Contact hours
lectures: 2 hours per week
labs/discussion groups: equivalent to 2 hours per week
  • 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.