BZ3002 - Biology Seminar

Credit points:	03
Year:	2009
Student Contribution Band:	Band 4
Administered by:	School of Marine & Tropical Biology

For students in the BConsBiol (Advanced) program and by permission of Head of School to other students with appropriate GPA

Investigation of the processes and methodologies of research in biology. Includes consideration of intellectual assumptions underpinning research projects, design of research projects, discovery and interpretation of structure in data, and preparation of research outcomes for publication. Includes critical analysis of contemporary research in biology, particularly relating to research strengths of the School in ecology, conservation biology, animal behaviour, genetics and evolutionary biology.

Learning Outcomes

• understanding the processes of biological investigations from observations and questions, through experimental design, to data collection, analysis, interpretation and reporting;
• ability to collate relevant information using appropriate media and technologies;
• ability to assimilate, evaluate and critique primary scientific literature;
• in-depth understanding of selected topics in biology;
• ability to communicate scientific evaluations verbally and in writing.

Graduate Qualities

• The ability to think critically, to analyse and evaluate claims, evidence and arguments, and to reason and deploy evidence clearly and logically;
• The ability to deploy critically evaluated information to practical ends;
• The ability to select and organise information and to communicate it accurately, cogently, coherently, creatively and ethically;
• The ability to reflect on and evaluate learning, and to learn independently in a self directed manner;
• The ability to read complex and demanding texts accurately, critically and insightfully;
• The ability to speak and write clearly, coherently and creatively.

Assumed Knowledge:

Students considering enrolment in this restricted subject should have a background in conservation biology and a GPA of at least 5.5.

Availabilities
Townsville, Internal, Study Period 1
Census Date 27-Mar-2009
Coord/Lect:	Dr Richard Rowe.
Contact hours:	12 hours lectures 24 hours tutorials
Assessment:	end of semester exam (50%); presentations (10%); tutorial papers (40%).
Cairns, Internal, Study Period 1
Census Date 27-Mar-2009
Coord/Lect:	Dr Richard Rowe.
Contact hours:	12 hours lectures 24 hours tutorials
Assessment:	end of semester exam (50%); presentations (10%); tutorial papers (40%).

Note: Minor variations might occur due to the continuous Subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.