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

Climate change is a unique environmental issue in that its impacts are manifest on a global scale which necessitates a globally integrated policy response. This unit explores how the twin track approach of mitigation and adaptation has evolved and highlights the difficulties of reaching an effective international approach to tackling climate change.

Students will evaluate a suite of mechanisms designed to encourage or force reductions in greenhouse gas emissions (the mitigation angle) and attempts to reduce vulnerability to the impacts of climate change (the adaptation approach). Examples are taken from around the world and at local, regional and national scales to enable comparisons and identify factors which inhibit and facilitate policy effectiveness. The linkages between climate policy and other key areas such as economic policy, development policy, urban planning and other environmental issues will be highlighted throughout this unit.

Through taking this unit, students will be able to develop a high degree of critical awareness with regards to climate change policy and be better positioned to advocate for effective action on climate change.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1UWA (Perth)Face to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) demonstrate an understanding of how socio-cultural and economic factors determine the understanding of climate change; (2) critically analyse approaches taken by individual governments and intergovernmental institutions in the field of climate change; (3) assess how climate change policy varies according to social, cultural, environmental and economic conditions; and (4) demonstrate an ability to develop an advocacy plan that considers how climate change policy can be driven through public participation.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) case study; (2) critical review; and (3) advocacy paper. 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 Linda Robson
Unit rules
Prerequisites
72 points in your chosen degree
Advisable prior study
GEOG1106 Climate Change: Environment and Society (ID 7659)
Contact hours
3 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.