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 offers students an inspirational history of the ways in which different cultures throughout history have constructed different interpretations of nature and accordingly their relations to it. It examines the ways in which nature has been constructed mythically, theologically, ideologically, philosophically, scientifically and artistically. The unit prepares students intellectually for the environmental and related philosophical challenges of the twenty-first century which will impact upon all professions. The unit covers various strands of Western and Eastern history including topics such as the agricultural revolution, the development of the first cities, the middle ages, the Renaissance, modernity and twentieth-century developments in the sciences and arts. Along the way students meet many of the great figures of history and become conversant with the big ideas of history. The latter stages of the unit concern how our current actions are connected to historical ideas and have consequences for the future.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 2UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 1 option in the Art History and Curatorial Studies major sequence
  • Level 1 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) outline the historical patterns of Western culture from the agricultural revolution to the twenty-first century; (2) analyse the points of intersection and divergence between the arts and sciences across the course of Western history; (3) develop an enriched conceptual framework within which to understand contemporary culture as the embodiment of a particular lineage of philosophical values; and (4) develop ethical and philosophical perspectives of direct relevance to contemporary culture.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) research audit ; (2) video of work-in-progress for position paper ; and (3) position 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)
Joely-Kym Sobott
Contact hours
lectures: 2 hours per week
tutorials: 1 hour per week
Note
Enrolled students can access unit material via the LMS (Learning Management System).
  • 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.