The Global Environment

Description

The subject introduces students to the elements of natural systems that underpin Agricultural production and Natural Resource Management (NRM). A critical understanding of these elements and systems is fundamental for the sustainable management of our natural resources. The subject will demonstrate how science can be applied to evaluate and manage ecosystems, and to maintain and improve the sustainability of land resource-based industries. Major themes explored include earth processes and materials; landscape processes and soil formation; weather, climate and climate change; microclimate; nutrient cycling in terrestrial systems; the water cycle and catchment hydrology and; agroecosystems. Indigenous perspectives on natural systems are also considered. Practical skills in landscape assessment and interpretation are emphasised, as well as an appreciation of the effects of scale and temporal change in the examination of natural and managed systems. Teaching Period: 2 March 2026 to 31 May 2026 Assessment Information: Description Timing Percentage Assignment 1: tutorial/practical notes for regular student feedback 10 hours (of work required) From Week 2 to Week 11 10% Assignment 2: Resource Analysis Task (for early assessment formative feedback) 400 words (equivalent) Week 6 10% Assignment 3: Oral presentation of site visit findings (group task) 15 minutes Week 10 20% Assignment 4: End-semester test (for summative assessment of knowledge of lecture material) 1 hours Week 12 20% Assignment 5: Landscape Function Analysis (LFA) Report 1800 words 2 Weeks after the end of teaching 40% Hurdle requirement: Students must attend a minimum 80% of scheduled workshops/practical classes. N/A