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

In this unit students gain an understanding about the processes involved in conducting research. This includes formulating research questions and a hypothesis, developing detailed research proposals which outline the rationale for study, and detailing rigorous sampling plans. Students also learn how to develop comprehensive assessments of the risks associated with travel to and from the field site, undertaking field work and the processing of samples and data. It is important for each student to be able to communicate to others why they are undertaking research, how they have done it and what they have found. Students present data at informal and formal group presentations and in a written research report. Students are required to spend up to five days at a field site in Albany during the mid-semester break.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1UWA (Perth)Face to face
Semester 1AlbanyFace to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 3 core unit in the Integrated Earth and Marine Sciences; Marine Science; Marine Biology; Marine and Coastal Processes major sequences
  • Level 3 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) demonstrate an awareness of important field sampling and measurement techniques; (2) demonstrate an understanding of sampling design and statistical analysis; (3) demonstrate an understanding of communicating scientific results; and (4) demonstrate effective team work skills; including the delegation and timely completion of tasks, effective communication, respect for diversity and safe work practices, including field trip planning and risk management..

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) critical analysis; (2) group project; and (3) project report. 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 Renae Hovey and Dr Jane Prince
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Successful completion of
72 points and one Unit(s) SCIE2204 Marine Systems
or ENSC3012 Data Collection and Analysis or equivalent
Incidental fees
Incidental student fees and charges are costs incurred by students as part of their studies at UWA that are in addition to their tuition fees (further information is available here).
Participation in this unit will incur the following incidental fee(s):
Residential Field Trip (estimated cost - Up to $525).
Contact hours
lectures/tutorials: 1 hour per week
labs: 3 hours per week
Residential field trip: 5 days (charges—cost of food and accommodation is borne by the student)
Note
Students are required to spend up to five days in residential accommodation at a field site in Albany during the mid-semester break.
  • 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.