James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2014

BZ5650 - Australian Land Plants: Recognition, Evolution and Diversity

Credit points: 03
Year: 2014
Student Contribution Band: Band 2
Administered by: School of Marine & Tropical Biology (pre 2015)

This subject will introduce students to plant identification techniques including the use of interactive computer keys, classification and nomenclature or how plants are named. Students will be introduced to ecosystem concepts and how to evaluate vegetation communities. The distinguishing features and spotting characters of plant families, particularly those common in tropical areas are introduced. Plant variation, adaptations and diversity, as well as speciation and speciation concepts are discussed. This knowledge is essential for competency in describing vegetation communities and understanding environmental sustainability. Skills developed in this subject are fundamental to ecological and environmental disciplines. This subject develops practical skills through field and laboratory activities.

Learning Outcomes

Assumed
Knowledge:
Students enrolling in this subject should have basic biological knowledge and an understanding of basic botanical terminology.

Availabilities

External, Study Period 1
Census Date 27-Mar-2014
Coord/Lect: Professor Betsy Jackes.
Contact hours:
  • 26 hours lectures - Online
  • 10 hours - Online discussion/tutorial
  • 30 hours fieldwork
Method of Delivery:WWW - LearnJCU
Assessment:essays (25%); assignments (25%); quizzes (20%); plant collection (30%).

External, Study Period 2
Census Date 28-Aug-2014
Coord/Lect: Professor Betsy Jackes.
Contact hours:
  • 26 hours lectures - Online
  • 10 hours - Online discussion/tutorial
  • 30 hours fieldwork
Method of Delivery:WWW - LearnJCU
Assessment:essays (25%); assignments (25%); quizzes (20%); plant collection (30%).

External, Study Period 10
Census Date 11-Dec-2014
Coord/Lect: Professor Betsy Jackes.
Contact hours:
  • 26 hours lectures - Online
  • 10 hours - Online discussion/tutorial
  • 30 hours fieldwork
Method of Delivery:WWW - LearnJCU
Assessment:essays (25%); assignments (25%); quizzes (20%); plant collection (30%).

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.