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 provides students with an understanding of different approaches to consultation and collaboration with stakeholders including local communities, private and public organisations. Students gain an understanding of principles, methods and tools for better collaboration with communities including Indigenous and cross-cultural groups, conflict management, knowledge systems, and science communication. Lessons from real-life case-studies in water planning are shared by a range of experts in the field, with time for in-depth workshops. Key topics included are rationale and terminology for various participatory research approaches, including action research and social learning, community engagement and organisational collaboration and some key evaluation methodologies.

Credit
6 points
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) explain the theoretical underpinnings of community-based participatory research, community engagement, community participation and organisational collaboration, and its applicability to water resources; (2) critique different participatory frameworks and assess when and why these need to be used in water and catchment management planning; (3) demonstrate an understanding of cross-cultural and specifically Australian Indigenous engagement issues as related to water planning and management; (4) employ a range of analytical frameworks for understanding the links between water and local community values and ideas; (5) explain and have a critical appreciation of knowledge systems, conflict resolution, negotiation and power relations and their links to water and catchment planning; (6) demonstrate an understanding of their own ability to implement participatory processes; and (7) participate successfully in individual projects on designing and implementing participatory approaches for integrated water planning.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) an essay (25 per cent); (2) participation (10 per cent); (3) a diary (15 per cent); and (4) a group project (50 per cent). 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 Barbara Cook
Unit rules
Prerequisites
ENVT4471 Project Management
and ENVT4472 Science of Water
Co-requisites
ENVT5572 Water Planning and Economics
  • 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.