Overview

This topic includes:Studies on the evolutionary history, relationships and ecological roles of major groups of Australian native plants and animalsAnalyses of human impacts on, and conservation biology of, major components of the Australian native biotaRelevant skills in critical analysis in the area of biodiversity and conservationField work which will illustrate … For more content click the Read More button below.

Topic availabilities

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Tuition pattern

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Aims

This topic aims to develop:

  • An understanding of the nature, significance and role of major components of the Australian native biota
  • An understanding of the major conservation issues regarding the major components of the Australian native biota
  • An appreciation of the biological, cultural, economic and social issues involved in conservation of endangered species
  • An understanding of the methodologies of monitoring and conserving endangered species
  • An understanding of the changing nature of ecosystems and biological communities, particularly in the Australian context
  • An understanding of the impact of human activities on biodiversity in Australia
  • A knowledge of current examples of ecosystem conservation and restoration following disturbances of varying severities and types, focussing on Australian case histories

Learning outcomes

On completion of this topic you will be expected to be able to:
1.
Apply generic skills of problem solving, critical thinking, in the development of individual written reports, and in effective team work
2.
Demonstrate their understanding of issues influencing the biodiversity and conservation of some of the major components of the Australian native biota
3.
Apply skills in collecting and identifying organisms from some of the major groups of Australian native organisms
4.
Demonstrate their understanding of the nature of the scientific method and some of its strengths and weaknesses and apply the method in designs of experiments
5.
Describe factors influencing ecosystem change and species decline and understand the nature of factors that lead to the generation and loss of biodiversity
6.
Appreciate the ways in which modern analytical software packages may be used to estimate and analyse phylogenetic trees and how this information is applied to the conservation of threatened taxa
7.
Work in a small group to achieve common aims and communicate effectively in spoken and written media

Assessments

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Requisites information

Pre-requisites:
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