Contemporary Environmental Issues

This subject is not offered in 2016.

120 hours

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

This subject involves the study of selected key issues in the field of environmental studies. The subject will assist students in broadening their understanding of environmental processes and update their knowledge of current debates and emerging themes in environmental studies, with special attention to concerns, theories and practices (most likely to be of an interdisciplinary nature) that are not currently covered in depth through other subjects taught at the University. Students will do this through following the readings and lectures/seminars presented by visiting specialist academic(s).

• Gain advanced analytical skills related to contemporary environmental issues.
• Become familiar with current debates in contemporary environmental issues.
• Expand their knowledge of environmental theories.
• Be able to pursue research in a specialised area of study.

A 1,500 word written assignment, due in the middle of the semester - 35%, and a 3,500 word written assignment, due at the end of the semester - 65%

The subject coordinator will provide a list of required readings.

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

• Independent research on topics relevant to the subject.
• Participate successfully in group discussions.
• Further develop their critical thinking through readings, class discussions, collaboration and assessment.
• Further develop analytical approaches and knowledge in contemporary environmental issues.