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 introduction to the interaction between humans and the environment at a global scale. Critical to our study of global systems is understanding past, current and probable future human values and their links to sustainability. Social dynamics interact closely with the environment and economics, often having global impacts on human populations and the environments in which they live. Students study diverse global environmental and social issues, exploring these in terms of their current status, causes, consequences and approaches for resolution. Case studies are drawn from the Asia–Pacific region to exemplify the diversity of issues related to natural and terrestrial resources and their management. These include agriculture, freshwater, urbanisation, deforestation and overfishing and highlight how Australia can position itself within the region to better assist its neighbours in managing these problems.

Credit
6 points
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 1 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) understand the use of an integrated systems approach to assess the geographical organisation of environmental, social and economic systems; (2) appreciate the linkages between globalisation and local environmental, social and economic change; (3) understand the concept of sustainability and its application to environmental, social and economic issues; and (4) analyse spatial data related to global processes and their local outcomes (e.g. social, demographic, economic and environmental indicators).

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) a portfolio of individual exercises and short reports based on methods and techniques covered in laboratory sessions (30 per cent); (2) a team project (30 per cent); and (3) a final examination (40 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 Kirsten Martinus
Unit rules
Incompatibility
EART1108 Globalisation, Environment and Development
Contact hours
lectures: 2 hours per week
workshops: 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.