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GEOG5001
Geographic Information Systems (Intro) |
This unit of study gives an overview of basic spatial data models,
and enables students to understand the import and export of data
to and from a geographical information system (GIS).
The manipulation of spatial data at a level appropriate to planning
or locational applications, and the development of thematic maps
from diverse data layers, will be addressed.
This unit is offered in each Semester.
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Worth:
6 credit points
When: February and July Semesters
Prerequisites: none
Classes: to be advised
Assessment: to be advised |
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GEOG5002
Geographic Information Systems (Advanced) |
This unit of study gives more in depth view of spatial data models
and the applications of geographical information systems (GIS).
As such this unit requires the completion of GEOG5001 or equivalent
knowledge.
The manipulation of spatial data at a level appropriate to planning
or locational applications, and the development of thematic maps
from diverse data layers, will be addressed.
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Worth:
6 credit points
When: July Semester
Prerequisites: GEOG5001 or equivalent
Classes: to be advised
Assessment:to be advised |
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GEOG5003
Environmental Remote Sensing |
This unit of study provides a comprehensive introduction to the
computational manipulation and application of imaging techniques
commonly used in environmental management, from the microscopic
to macroscopic level. It includes an introduction to the uses
of aerial photography and initial training in image analysis using
computer-based exercises. The application and interpretation of
remote sensing techniques is then covered in computer-based practical
exercises that use a mixture of Landsat thematic mapper, Hyper-spectral,
airborne radiometric and magnetic databases. The application of
processed images in environmental management will be covered through
integrated lectures and laboratory exercise, with assignments
being done as part of private study time.
This unit will NOT run in 2006.
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Worth:
6 credit points
When: February Semester
Prerequisites: GEOG5001 or equivalent
Classes: to be advised
Assessment:to be advised |
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GEOG5004
Environmental Mapping and Monitoring |
This course is aimed at teaching the basics of environmental
mapping, both onshore and offshore, and (pre) processing methods
for integrating and analysing the raw data into a geocomputing
environment. These techniques will be applied to a variety of
problems concerning onshore and offshore regions related to environmental
issues.
Students will develop skills in the environmental mapping (GPS,
total station survey) and remote sensing techniques (magnetic,
electromagnetic, seismic and sonars) required for GIS data integration,
along with raw data processing methods. A range of topics will
be presented with an emphasis on field-based data capture and
processing of spatial information. Conceptual material presented
in lectures will be placed in an applied context through a series
of field sessions designed to strengthen practical understanding
of data capture techniques.
This unit will NOT run in 2006.
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Worth:
6 credit points
When: July Semester
Prerequisites: GEOG5001 or equivalent
Classes: to be advised
Assessment:to be advised |
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MARS5001
Coastal Processes and Systems |
This unit of study will examine the major coastal processes and
systems of relevance to coastal zone management. These will include
nearshore, estuarine and aeolian processes. Systems investigated
will include rocky coasts and bluffs; beaches, barriers and dunes;
and estuaries and inlets. The interaction between these processes
and systems that are of most relevance to coastal management will
be highlighted. These will include coastal hazards such as beach
erosion, dune migration, bluff retreat, coastal flooding, inlet
closure, and anthropogenic impacts such as pollution, storm water
and acid sulphate soils. The unit will be presented both in lectures
and field excursions, the latter enabling each system to be examined
first hand.
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Worth:
6 credit points
When: February Semester
Classes: to be advised
Assessment: report, practical work |
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MARS5006
Coral Reefs, Science and Management |
This unit provides an indepth overview of the key biological
and non-biological processes that make up coral reef ecosystems.
There is a focus on biogeographic, oceanographic and physiological
processes underlying the integrity of global tropical reef systems.
The Great Barrier Reef is used as a case-study to explore emerging
concepts on the influence of natural and antrhopogenic processes
on the integrity of global reef and lagoon systems.
Learning activities will include a series of background lectures
and research seminars and tutorials in the development of a major
research project. A main component of this unit is an independent
research project conducted under the supervision of the unit instructors.
The unit concludes with a series of oral presentations based on
the student reesarch. Assessment will consist of two essays and
a project report and presentation. The curriculum is based on
current research and a course book wil lbe provided.
For more information, please click here.
Also, please contact Professor
Maria Byrne for more details about the syllabus, activities
and details of the feildschool.
NOTE: This is a field intensive unit (run over 8 days) that will
be held at either the Heron Island or One Tree Island research
stations. The unit is ex-Gladstone (Queensland and Students need
to pay for their own transport to and from the venue. There are
also addition costs involved for food and accommodation.
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Worth:
6 credit points
When: July Semester
Classes: to be advised
Assessment: report, practical work |
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MARS5007
Coral Reefs, Energy and Climate Change |
This unit provides an indepth understanding of the key geological,
oceanographic, biological and economic factors affecting climate
change, energy generation and needs with specific reference to
the Great Barrier Reef. Computer prediction of worst and best
case scenarios are used to develop management strategies and policy
implications.
Learning activities will include a series of background lectures
and research seminars and tutorials in the development of a major
research project. A main component of this unit is an independent
research project conducted under the supervision of the unit instructors.
The unit concludes with a series of oral presentations based on
the student reesarch. Assessment will consist of two essays and
a project report and presentation. The curriculum is based on
current research and a course book wil lbe provided.
For more information, please contact Professor
Maria Byrne for more details about the syllabus, activities
and details of the feildschool.
NOTE: This is a field intensive unit (run over 8 days) that will
be held at either the Heron Island or One Tree Island research
stations. The unit is ex-Gladstone (Queensland and Students need
to pay for their own transport to and from the venue. There are
also addition costs involved for food and accommodation.
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Worth:
6 credit points
When: July Semester
Classes: to be advised
Assessment: report, practical work |
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WILD5001
Australian Wildlife: an introduction |
This unit of study provides an introduction to the wildlife of
Australasia, an overview of the present status of that wildlife,
and an understanding of both conservation problems and management
solutions.
Issues in wildlife management are exemplified using a broad
range of vertebate species occupying different environments. Emphasis
is placed on providing studnets with a coordinated and interdisciplinary
approach to wildlife health and management, and on developing
expertise in recognising and solving a broad range of problems
in field populations.
The unit integrates lectures, practical work and supervised study,
and offers students the opportunity to work on real-world wildlife
conservation problems relevant to their individual backgrounds.
For further information, please click here.
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Worth:
6 credit points
When: February Semester
Prerequisites: none
Classes: to be advised
Assessment: to be advised |
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WILD5002
Australian Wildlife: field studies |
This unit of study provides a first hand introduction to the
wildlife of Australasia, a practical overview of the present status
of that wildlife, and an understanding of both conservation problems
and management solutions.
Issues in wildlife management are exemplified using sampling
and diagnostic methods on a broad range of vertebate species occupying
different environments.
This unit follows on from WILD5001 and provides practical experience
via a three day field trip.
For further information, please click here.
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Worth:
6 credit points
When: February Semester
Prerequisites: none
Classes: to be advised
Assessment: to be advised |
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WILD5007
Sustainable Use and Stewardship of Wildlife |
This unit of study provides an introduction to the utilisation
of wildlife in all its forms, including consumptive and non-consumptive
activities.
It provides an overview of all the issues to be considered when
planning and implementing such programs, including ethical and
animal welfare concerns. In examining real-world examples of sustainable
use of wildlife there will be consideration of the potential for
such activities to contribute to national economies and to local
communities as well as to the effective management of wildlife.
This will involve consideration of pest versus resource issues
and of the use of sildlide by indigenous people.
The unit integrates lectures, practical work and supervised study,
and offers students the opportunity to work on real-world wildlife
conservation problems relevant to their individual backgrounds.
For further information, please click here.
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Worth:
6 credit points
When: July Semester
Prerequisites: none
Classes: to be advised
Assessment: to be advised |
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ENGG5601
Greenhouse Gas Mitigation |
Reducing Greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate
change has an important role to play in slowing global warming.
This unit offers graduates the opportunity to learn about the
complex interaction between climate and the oceans, the nature
of anthropogenic influences, how some emissions may be captured
and utilised to social advantage, and how emissions need to be
regarded from a global perspective. Alternative energy sources
such as solar, wave and wind power will be explored and evaluated
as to their viability. There will also be investigation of the
impact of compliance with the new regime for carbon dioxide emissions
from both a company and government instrumentality viewpoint.
For information on this
unit please click here.
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Worth:
6 credit points
When: July Semester
Prerequisites: none
Classes: 3 hrs lectures per week
Assessment: to be advised |
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CIVL5656
The Fluid Environment |
The impact of the air or water environment on engineering projects
or the implications of construction or industrial processes on
the atmosphere or the ocean need to be assessed with a knowledge
of the fundamental processes governing the hydrosphere. Topics
include historical review of the important physical concepts.
The equations of fluid mechanics and the simplifications for a
rotating earth. The routine collection of data. Numerical models.
Forecasting. Abstract preparation. Formal presentation techniques.
For
information on this unit please click here.
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Worth:
6 credit points
When: February Semester
Prerequisites: none
Classes: to be advised
Assessment: to be advised |
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CIVL5660
Sustainable Ocean Energy Resources |
This unit will introduce students to the topic of sustainable
ocean energy resources. The course will provide an understanding
of the principles of sustainability and the development of renewable
energy resources in the ocean environment. Various energy sources
will be covered including offshore wind energy, wave energy, tidal
stream and marine current energy, thermal gradient energy, and
salinity gradient energy. The latest developments around the world
will be discussed and used as examples. Economics, socio-political
issues, and implications for the environment will be discussed.
For
information on this unit please click here.
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Worth:
6 credit points
When: July Semester
Prerequisites: none
Classes: to be advised
Assessment: to be advised |
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CIVL5664
Mixing in the Marine Environment |
The objectives are to introduce the physics of mixing in the
ocean of pollutants and provide access to data for design. The
outcomes include competency in engineering aspects of disposal
of pollutants in the ocean and students will understand the basic
principles of turbulent diffusion.
The syllabus includes: Turbulent diffusion, dilution advection,
Wind mixing and ocean stratification, Ocean outfalls, Ocean dumping,
Coastal cooling water systems, Pollution from mariculture river
plumes, desalination plumes.
For
information on this unit please click here.
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Worth:
6 credit points
When: July Semester
Prerequisites: none
Classes: to be advised
Assessment: to be advised |
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CIVL5665
Advanced Water Resource Management and Use |
The course content includes: Assessment methods for describing
water quality, Physical, biological and chemical treatment methods
for wastewater, Water storage and distribution systems, Management
principles for water resources, Irrigation demands, Desalination
methods and appropriate applications, Wastewater reuse, Stormwater
harvesting, Environmental considerations for water catchment areas,
Water conservation principles.
For
information on this unit please click here.
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Worth:
6 credit points
When: February Semester
Prerequisites: none
Classes: to be advised
Assessment: to be advised |
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AFNR5104
Environmental Chemistry A |
This unit commences with a field trip to the Namoi and the Macquarie
Valleys, where agriculture largely based on irrigation has developed.
Environmental impacts on soil and water of agricultural enterprises
such as cotton farming and human settlement will be assessed.
Field observations on pH, nutrient and salt content, pesticide
and heavy metal content will be made on water, sediment, soils
and in constructed wetlands, with samples returned for more detailed
laboratory analysis at the University. Lectures will complement
the field trip, including topics such as environmental chemistry
of heavy metals, their effects on organisms, 2; mechanisms of
tolerance and phytoremediation, 2; risk assessment of pesticides
including herbicides, their mode of action and environmental fate,
4; analysis and monitoring of pesticide residues by GC, GC-MS
and immunoassay (ELISA), 3; maximum residue limits (MRLs) and
residue surveys, 2; remediation of pesticides in ecosystems, 2;
design of new pesticides and means of pest control, 3. Laboratory
sessions will be related to these lecture topics, including six
sessions on atomic absorption analysis for nutrients and heavy
metals, mercury analysis, pesticide analysis by GLC, GC-MS, HPLC
and ELISA.
For
information on this unit please click here
or contact Professor
Ivan Kennedy.
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Worth:
6 credit points
When: February Semester
Prerequisites: none
Classes: 18 hrs each of lectures and laboratory
work over the semester; a 6-day fieldtrip
Assessment: exam, fieldtrip report, lab reports |
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AFNR5105
Environmental Chemistry B |
This is a field-oriented unit in the environmental chemistry
relevant to global warming/climate change to (i) provide students
with an understanding of chemical and biochemical processes in
rural ecosystems and their sustainability, using case studies
of causes and possible remedies for environmental impacts (ii)
to undertake a field trip to illustrate case studies related to
climate change, including work at research centres and field sites
in eastern Australia (Canberra, Snowy Mountains, and the Murray
and Murrumbidgee catchments) (iii) laboratory sessions and one
group research project selected to study such a problem and to
recommend solutions in a professional setting. This unit of study
will focus on chemical and biological factors involved in the
generation of the enhanced greenhouse effect and its impact on
rural ecosystems. Practical solutions will be sought by students,
based on a field theory relating the generation of molecular and
biological action in ecosystems to the dissipation of solar energy
to outer space. Lectures will include the environmental carbon
cycle, nitrogen and sulphur cycles, covering bioenergetics and
production of greenhouse gases; detailed pH and charge balancing
on nutrient uptake; acidification of ecosystems and effects on
plants and animals; remediation and control of greenhouse emissions;
remediation of acidification and salinisation in rural environments.
The laboratory sessions and the group project will illustrate
these environmental processes, including measurement of greenhouse
gas production, NOx, photosynthesis and nitrogen fixation, monitoring
of endocrine-disrupting compounds using GLC, HPLC and ELISA.
For
information on this unit please click here
or contact Professor
Ivan Kennedy.
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Worth:
6 credit points
When: July Semester
Prerequisites: none
Classes: 18 hrs each of lectures and 24 hrs laboratory
work over the semester; a 5-day fieldtrip
Assessment: exam, fieldtrip report, lab reports |
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AFNR5107
Analytical Chemistry |
Lecture, reading list and laboratory topics will cover the theory
and fundamentals of both common and advanced instrumentation used
in analytical chemistry. Topics will cover ion selective electrode
technology, pH meters, and other electrochemical devices; centrifuge
and ultracentrifuge instrumentation, maintenance and applications,
instrumentation in atomic and molecular spectrophotometry, gas
and liquid chromatography, gel and capillary electrophoresis;
automated derivatization methods; mass spectrometry, and immuno-analytical
technology.
For
information on this unit please click here
or contact Dr Bob
Caldwell .
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Worth:
6 credit points
When: February Semester
Prerequisites: none
Classes: 22 hrs each of lectures and 32 hrs laboratory
work over the semester
Assessment: exam, lab reports, assignment |
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AFNR5501
The Soil Resource |
The unit of study is designed to provide a detailed knowledge
of the important features and problems of Australian soils. By
the end of this unit of study, students will develop skills in
describing and interpreting soil profile features in the field.
They will become familiar with quantitative soil data handling
procedures and be able do quantitative soil mapping; and measure
common soil properties in the laboratory. They will also learn
to work in a team environment and write a report on soil mapping
and laboratory analysis.
The lecture topics include- Features, geography and management
of Australian soils; Digital soil mapping - concepts and spatial
prediction of soil classes; Soil quality, soil health and soil
function - physical, biological and chemical indicators of soil
sustainability; Soil structure: The elements of soil structure
and methods of their assessment; The degradation and amelioration
of soil structure and its effect on agriculture; Soil water erosion
- detachment, entrainment, runoff and deposition; Soil acidification:
effects of soil acidity in soils, forms of soil acidity, sources
of soil acidity, buffering mechanisms in soils, soil pH and Al
availability, extent of soil acidity in Australia and remediation
of soil acidity; Soil salinity: causes, sources of salts, nature
of soil salinity, salinity parameters in soil and water, effects
of salinity on plant growth, management of soil salinity; Soil
contamination: concepts/definitions, sources of contaminants,
effects of contaminants, major contaminants in soil, remediation
of contaminated soils.; soil carbon accounting.
For
information on this unit please click here
or contact Dr Balwant
Singh.
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Worth:
6 credit points
When: July Semester
Prerequisites: none
Classes: 2 hrs each lectures and practical per week
Assessment: exam, lab reports, assignment |
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AFNR5505
Environmental Soil Chemistry |
The main objective of the unit is to develop an understanding
of the common chemical properties and processes in soil environment.
By the end of this unit of study, students will become familiar
with soil chemical composition and develop skills in describing
chemical processes in soil environment. They will be able to measure
various chemical properties of soil and soil solution in the laboratory;
and perform chemical speciation of ions in soil solution. Students
will also learn to work in a team environment and develop communication
and writing skills.
Syllabus summary: The lecture topics include- the structure and
chemistry of inorganic components in soil, surface charge of soil
minerals, chemistry and general properties of soil organic matter,
important functional groups of soil organic matter, role of organic
matter in soil, cation exchange in soil, selectivity of cations
on soil colloids, cation exchange reactions and selectivity coefficients,
adsorption reactions of environmentally important ions, surface
functional groups, adsorption isotherms, equilibrium based adsorption
models, point of zero charge, diffuse double layer-theory and
models, surface complexation models, soil solution-importance,
methods of obtaining soil solutions, models to determine activity
coefficients, speciation, dissolution and solubility processes
in soil environment, soil chemical equilibria, geochemical speciation
models and redox chemistry of soil.
For
information on this unit please click here
or contact Dr Balwant
Singh.
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Worth:
6 credit points
When: July Semester
Prerequisites: none
Classes: 2 hrs lectures and 3 hrs practical per
week
Assessment: exam, lab reports, assignment |
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RSEC5432
Environmental Economics |
The unit provides theoretical and empirical background related
to economic aspects of a range of environmental issues. The unit
exemplifies the studied concepts with environmental problems related
to agriculture (soil salinity, algal blooms, overgrazing etc.)
as well as with environmental problems typical to Australia. The
guiding economic themes are externalities, market failure, the
importance of property rights, optimal allocation of pollution
abatement, technical issues (e.g. measuring benefits without commodities
[e.g. existence values]), and the processes for making choices
relating to non-market goods. Some social issues related to environmental
impacts are studied through exploration of the problems of population
size and distribution, economic growth, and environmental regulation.
For
information on this unit please click here.
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Worth:
6 credit points
When: February Semester
Prerequisites: none
Classes: 3 hrs lectures per week
Assessment: 2 exams, essay |
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PACS6903
Peace and the Environment |
This unit considers the relationship betwen environmental degradation
and human conflict in a range of geographical and cultural settings.
Students investigate their personal relationships with 'nature'
before exploring the reasons why the environment is being degraded.
In Part 1 attention is focused on the reasons why individuals
in Western industrialisesd nations have come to see nature as
'other', 'separate' or 'removed'. From Plato onwards we explore
Western environmental discourse in order to understand why human
beings appear to have an increasingly violent relationship with
nature. In Part 2 the links between environmental degradation
and conflict are explored using the impacts of the anthropogenic
greenhouse effects as a case study. Part 3 is the solutions part
of the course. The concept of sustainability is explored, its
contradictions highlighted and new approaches to environmental
security advanced. Finally, attention is focused on the whole
issue of peace building through environmental protection at the
local, regional and international levels.
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Worth:
6 credit points
When: July Semester
Prerequisites: none
Classes: 2 hrs lectures per week
Assessment: 5000 word essay |
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