This course uses three case studies to develop a multi-faceted, research-based understanding of complex environmental problems that graduating students can apply in future research or work environments. The course emphasises integrative, engaged, and research-based approaches to complexity. The first two cases present complex local and national issues in collaboration with key stakeholders. Students engage with these issues by drawing on a range of theoretical concepts and practical tools. The learning from these cases is then applied to a 'do-it-yourself' case study selected by students and conducted as a group project, again in collaboration with local stakeholders. The focus throughout is on case studies as vehicles for learning and reflection, as well as a testing ground for tools, techniques and approaches discussed in the course.
Note: Graduate students attend joint classes with undergraduates but are assessed separately. During the second part of the course graduate students attend specialist case-based tutorials with peers.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, students will have the knowledge and skills to:
On completion of the course students will have the knowledge and skills to:
- Understand and engage with the methodological and practical challenges posed by complex environmental problems. (LO1)
- Critically evaluate the complex nature of environmental problems. (LO2)
- Apply higher-level problem solving skills in environmental studies and environmental science, including social learning and critical reflection.(LO3)
- Create innovative, collaborative research-based responses to complex environmental problems. (LO4)
- Understand and apply effective stakeholder engagement practices within a case-based framework. (LO5)
- Demonstrate a critical understanding of the case study approach as a means of addressing complexity. (LO6)
Undergraduate Learning Outcomes
1. Understand the methodological and practical challenges posed by complex environmental problems. (LO1)
2. Characterise and effectively describe the complex nature of environmental problems. (LO2)
3. Apply problem solving skills in environmental studies and environmental science, including social learning and critical reflection. (LO3)
4. Create innovative, collaborative research-based responses to complex environmental problems. (LO4)
5. Understand and apply effective stakeholder engagement practices. (LO5)
6. Understand and apply the case study approach to participate effectively in integrative, team-based research projects. (LO6)
Indicative Assessment
• Presentation of research-based policy analysis and advice (20%) [LO 1,2]
• Research essay (35%) [LO 2,3,4,5]
• Develop and present a complex environmental problem case for peer review (10%) [LO 2,4,5, 6]
• Learning portfolio, including a critical review of the case study approach as a means of addressing complex environmental problems (35%) [LO 1,3,4,5, 6)
The ANU uses Turnitin to enhance student citation and referencing techniques, and to assess assignment submissions as a component of the University's approach to managing Academic Integrity. While the use of Turnitin is not mandatory, the ANU highly recommends Turnitin is used by both teaching staff and students. For additional information regarding Turnitin please visit the ANU Online website.
Workload
60 contact hours including lectures, tutorials, workshops and practicals.
Requisite and Incompatibility
Prescribed Texts
van Kerkhoff L. 2013 Developing integrative research for sustainability science through a complexity principles-based approach. Sustainability Science. 8 (online first, 19 Feb 2013).
Freeman Herreid C. 1997 What is a case? Bringing to Science education the established teaching tool of Law and Medicine. Journal of College Science Teaching, 27(2).
Preliminary Reading
van Kerkhoff, L. (2005). Integrated research: concepts of connection in environmental science and policy, Environmental Science & Policy, 8(5), 439-463.
Areas of Interest
- Forestry
- Geography
- Human Ecology
- Interdisciplinary Studies - Sustainability
- Resource Management and Environmental Science
- Environmental Studies
- Human Sciences
- Policy Studies
- Population Studies
- Economics
- Information Technology
Specialisations
Fees
Tuition fees are for the academic year indicated at the top of the page.
If you are a domestic graduate coursework or international student you will be required to pay tuition fees. Tuition fees are indexed annually. Further information for domestic and international students about tuition and other fees can be found at Fees.
- Student Contribution Band:
- 2
- Unit value:
- 6 units
If you are an undergraduate student and have been offered a Commonwealth supported place, your fees are set by the Australian Government for each course. At ANU 1 EFTSL is 48 units (normally 8 x 6-unit courses). You can find your student contribution amount for each course at Fees. Where there is a unit range displayed for this course, not all unit options below may be available.
| Units | EFTSL |
|---|---|
| 6.00 | 0.12500 |
Course fees
- Domestic fee paying students
| Year | Fee |
|---|---|
| 2017 | $3660 |
- International fee paying students
| Year | Fee |
|---|---|
| 2017 | $4878 |
Offerings, Dates and Class Summary Links
ANU utilises MyTimetable to enable students to view the timetable for their enrolled courses, browse, then self-allocate to small teaching activities / tutorials so they can better plan their time. Find out more on the Timetable webpage.
Class summaries, if available, can be accessed by clicking on the View link for the relevant class number.
Second Semester
| Class number | Class start date | Last day to enrol | Census date | Class end date | Mode Of Delivery | Class Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8211 | 24 Jul 2017 | 31 Jul 2017 | 31 Aug 2017 | 27 Oct 2017 | In Person | N/A |
