Sustainable Development

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2008:

Usually completion of 25 points of first year geography and 121-021: Environmental Politics and Management or the approval of the subject coordinator.

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Student Support and Engagement Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability

The term 'sustainable development' is widely recognised but little understood, with over 50 definitions reflecting the different understandings of environmental theorists and practitioners. This subject discusses and interprets these key cultural, political and philosophical differences, both in concept and practice. Students will explore global, developed and developing world examples of sustainable development, examining case histories relating to climate change, population growth and biodiversity preservation. On completion of this subject students should be able to illuminate underlying ecological, economic, and social issues associated with different practices of environmental management and have a working understanding of the national and international dimensions of ecological governance.

Written work totalling 4000 words comprising an oral presentation of a tutorial paper 10% (during the semester), an essay of 3000 words 60% (due during semester), a take-home examination of 1000 words 25% (due at the end of semester) and tutorial attendance 5%. Each component of assessment must be completed for a student to be able to pass this subject.

• be capable of thinking critically about issues relating to sustainable development;

• be capable of developing a conceptual framework appropriate to understanding and interpreting problems relating to sustainability;

• be able to learn research skills appropriate to understanding and interpreting issues and problems of sustainable development;

• be able to write coherent and well-researched essays;

• be capable of engaging in effective oral presentations.