BIO1022 · Life on Earth

Overview

This unit views the extraordinary diversity of life on Earth through the prism of evolutionary theory and in the context of human and environmental health. You will examine how animals and plants, through the agents of gene mutation and natural selection, are able to adapt to new and changing environments. Diverse physiological, reproductive and behavioural solutions to life's challenges will be used to illustrate how evolutionary forces and constraints shape us and the world around us. We will then examine how interactions within and between species and with the non-living environment generate the immense ecological variety seen on Earth. Contemporary issues and the societal impact of biology will be explored by learning from world-class researchers and industry experts. You will undertake self-directed learning through the online environment. These online activities, readings and instructional videos will be complemented by face-to-face workshops where you will collaborate with peers and teaching staff to deepen their understanding of the biological concepts introduced each week. You will gain hands-on experience and develop experimental and analytical skills in the laboratory environment. This unit is ideally paired with BIO1011 and/or BIO1042.

Areas of study: Applied microbiology Biochemistry Biotechnology Developmental biology Ecology and conservation biology Genetics and genomics Human pathology Immunology Microbiology Molecular biology Pharmacology Physiology Plant sciences Tropical environmental biology Zoology

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. Identify and describe the role of biological concepts and processes of evolution, plant and animal physiology, reproduction and life history strategies and core ecological concepts in society and everyday human life;
2. Demonstrate proficiency in communicating scientific results through a range of formats (written and oral);
3. Formulate hypotheses, collect experimental data and demonstrate proficiency in interpreting their results;
4. Demonstrate competence and precision in the use of common life sciences equipment and techniques;
5. Utilise research skills including database searches to synthesise and interpret information related to scientific research, using appropriate conventions for scientific attribution;
6. Work effectively, responsibly, safely and ethically, both individually and in peer or team contexts.

Workload

12 hours per week which includes a combination of pre-workshop material, workshops, seminars and laboratory classes.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.