James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2003

GE3403:03

Biogeography and Past Environments of Arid Australia *

168 contact hours. July block mode.

Staff: Dr J Luly.

This subject is a field based intensive course which provides a practical introduction to the landscapes, ecology and environmental history of arid Australia. It emphasises the effects of long term environmental change on the development of arid zone landscapes and biota and contemporary issues in arid zone land management.

Learning Objectives:

1. ecology and environments of arid Australia;
2. appreciation of palaeoenvironmental record of Australia in general;
3. time of development and impacts of aridity in Australia;
4. interactions between people and the arid environment;
5. issues fundamental to the ‘ecological sustainable’ management of arid Australia.

Assessment by examination (40%); oral presentation in field (10%); reflective notes (10%); essay (40%).