James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2011

MB5005 - Scientific Diving and Diving Physiology

Credit points: 03
Year: 2011
Student Contribution Band: Band 4
Administered by: School of Marine & Tropical Biology

Available ONLY to students enrolled in GCertSc, GDipSc, GDipResMeth, MAppSc. Students must be able to pass a 200m swim test, hold Rescue diver certification (or equivalent), show proof of >30 hours of diving, hold a current dive medical (AS2299 standard), and have current First Aid and Oxygen certificates.

A two-week intensive subject on diving physiology of marine mammals and practical training in the skills required for certification as a scientific diver. Topics discussed will include diving physics, diving physiology (eg seals, penguins, whales), use of dive tables, boat handling, underwater navigation and dive-related first aid. Practical skills developed will include rescue skills, safe deep and multi-level diving procedures, boat handling, radio procedures, knot tying, compressor operation and maintenance and SCUBA equipment maintenance. Students successfully completing the subject will be certified as scientific divers with endorsements depending on past experience.

Learning Outcomes

Assumed
Knowledge:
Students enrolling in this subject should have an undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline (eg biology or environmental science) or have acquired equivalent knowledge through other study. They should have an excellent understanding of science subjects, particularly physiology, ecology and biostatistics. Students must have Rescue diving certification, at least 30 hours of logged dives (post open-water training),current First Aid and Oxygen certificates and a current AS2299 dive medical (or equivalent). Students should be confident swimmers and are expected to take a 200m swim test during the subject.

Availabilities

Townsville, Block, Study Period 10
Census Date 08-Dec-2011
Face to face teaching 26-Nov-2011 to 11-Dec-2011
Coordinator: Mr Phillip Osmond, Miss Naomi Gardiner
Lecturers: Mr Phillip Osmond, Mr Glen Ewels, Dr Denise Blake.
Contact hours:
  • 56 hours lectures
  • 24 hours fieldwork
Assessment:quizzes or tests (20%); presentations (20%); practical pool and open water diving tests (30%); (30%); essays (30%).
Restrictions: An enrolment quota applies to this offering.

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.