Handbook

This subject comprises of an extended field trip. Students are given the opportunity to learn the fundamental principles of ecology in an applied, real-world setting. In addition to repeatability, objectivity and other aspects of study design, students learn the importance of ethical and animal welfare considerations. Students learn how to synthesise information from primary and secondary sources, identify gaps in our current ecological understanding of key areas, and translate these knowledge gaps into a series of testable questions. Students are given opportunities to overcome logistical and conceptual challenges in the field, enhancing their problem solving skills and abilities to work as part of a team. Students completing this subject have the ability to conduct scientific research, situate new knowledge gathered from the field within the context of existing knowledge and communicate their findings to a range of audiences in a professional manner. They also gain an appreciation of how the links between ecology, natural resource management and conservation on and off-park can inform a broader understanding of the environmental management. Please note that there is a selection process conducted by the School of Environmental Sciences to determine enrolment in this subject. Students should not enrol in this subject unless they have submitted an expression of interest and subsequently been advised by the School of Environmental Sciences that they have been selected. Accommodation, food and transport costs are associated with this subject.