James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2017

EV1011 - Introduction to Sustainability

Credit points: 03
Year: 2017
Student Contribution Band: Band 2
Administered by: College of Science and Engineering

This subject provides an introduction to sustainability and is the foundation subject for students undertaking the undergraduate degree in sustainability, or who have an interest in sustainability and sustainable development. It explores the underpinnings of the ecological, social and economic challenges confronting humanity by considering the history, philosophy, ethics, and political developments that have shaped current interpretations of sustainability. The nature of 'wicked' problems is explored alongside sustainability principles (eg 'weak' and 'strong' perspectives) and concepts such as environmental justice and inter- and intra-generational equity are reviewed. Some of the challenges and solutions to meeting sustainability objectives across the so-called 'triple-bottom-line' (ecological, social and economic) are discussed. The practical/tutorial sessions will develop themes introduced in the lectures and introduce some of the technical tools and methods required to understand and consider sustainability and sustainable development, including multi-disciplinary approaches and complex systems.

Learning Outcomes


Availabilities

Townsville, Internal, Study Period 2
Census Date 24-Aug-2017
Coordinator: Dr Colin MacGregor
Contact hours:
  • 26 hours lectures
  • 26 hours - Practicals/tutorials
    Assessment:end of semester exam (40%); quizzes or tests (10%); essays (20%); video (15%); tutorial, practical and field exercises (15%).

    Cairns, Internal, Study Period 2
    Census Date 24-Aug-2017
    Coordinator: Dr Colin MacGregor
    Contact hours:
    • 26 hours lectures
    • 26 hours - Practicals/tutorials
      Assessment:end of semester exam (40%); quizzes or tests (10%); essays (20%); video (15%); tutorial, practical and field exercises (15%).

      JCU Singapore, Internal, Study Period 51
      Census Date 06-Apr-2017
      Coordinator: Dr Colin MacGregor
      Contact hours:
      • 20 hours lectures
      • 20 hours - Practicals/tutorials
        Assessment:end of semester exam (40%); in-class quiz (10%); essays (20%); video (15%); tutorial, practical and field exercises (15%).

        JCU Singapore, Internal, Study Period 53
        Census Date 07-Dec-2017
        Coordinator: Dr Colin MacGregor
        Contact hours:
        • 20 hours lectures
        • 20 hours - Practicals/tutorials
          Assessment:end of semester exam (40%); in-class quiz (10%); essays (20%); video (15%); tutorial, practical and field exercises (15%).

          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.