Investigating Coastal Environments
Credit points
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
Prerequisites
SOL1002 - Safety in Natural Environments
(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)
Co-requisites
(Corequisite units must be studied concurrently with this unit)
Overview
This unit enhances student understanding of coastal environments, including their transformation over time and the interplay between recreation, social, cultural, environmental impact, and sustainability. Through field teaching workshops incorporating a range of coastal adventure based learning activities, students gain practical and technical skills and knowledge for safely and effectively planning, engaging in, and facilitating coastal activities for educational and recreational purposes. The incorporation of a community surf bronze medallion qualification will be used to support and enhance graduate employability.
Off campus field teaching and learning in this unit may require a levy for incidental fees for accommodation, transport and camping.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- Exhibit an advanced understanding of coastal ecosystems, incorporating ecological, cultural, and Indigenous perspectives;
- Apply advanced environmental interpretation skills to effectively communicate the interplay between adventure, recreation, culture, environmental impact, and sustainability in coastal environments;
- Adapt knowledge and technical skills in practical outdoor leadership settings, to demonstrate understanding of coastal environmental management; and
- Exemplify advanced skills in planning, executing, and facilitating coastal adventure activities for educational and recreational purposes, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical experience.
Assessment
For Melbourne campuses
Due to risk management and professional/industry requirements to demonstrate knowledge and skill within both simulated and workplace environments, attendance requirements and hurdle tasks apply to field teaching work and practicums.
Assessment type: Other | Grade: 15%
Film Story board (on coastal environmental activity)
Assessment type: Journal | Grade: 40%
Reflective nature journals (unit based learning experiences)
Assessment type: Other | Grade: 45%
Coastal Education Film
Field Teaching requires mandatory attendance of 100% attendance, except under extenuating circumstances. This is due to the unit containing a significant competency component, enabling students to acquire and demonstrate essential skills to meet industry practice (VU Standards for Assessment Procedure (HE) Policy clause 25, 26, 29).
Required reading
Selected materials will be made available via the unit VU Collaborate site.
As part of a course
This unit is not compulsory for any specific course. Depending on the course you study, this unit may be taken as an elective.