121-022 Development and Urban Environments

All BSc students, except those enrolled in the BA/BSc combined course and the BASc course, can only receive credit at the 200-level for this subject.

Completion of 25 points of first year geography, environmental studies, urban planning or environmental science, or at the discretion of the subject coordinator.

This subject examines the impacts of development on urban environments and of urbanisation on urban hydrology, land and biological systems. This subject also covers how these impacts are manifest as problems, and the variety of ways these impacts are managed. The issues discussed include globalisation and impacts on urban environments; urban transport; urban environments and human health; pollution causes and control; urban impact on natural resources; cities and sustainable development. Students should gain an appreciation of the nature of cities as part of, rather than separate from, the general environment; complex interactions between social groups and agents, historical processes and political structures, natural phenomena, and built environments; and the conflicting political and policy responses to urban environmental issues.

• think critically about issues relating to Australian environmental politics and management;

• develop a conceptual framework appropriate to understanding and interpreting Australian environmental issues;

• learn research skills appropriate to understanding and interpreting Australian environmental issues;

• write coherent and well-researched essays;

• engage in effective oral presentations.

Practical reports totalling 1000 words 20% (due during semester), field trip report 1000 words 30% (due mid-semester) and major essay 2000 words 50% (due at end of semester).