ENVS6036 Integrative Research Methods

Offered By	School of Resources Environment & Society
Academic Career	Graduate Coursework
Course Subject	Environmental Science
Offered in	First Semester, 2009 and First Semester, 2010
Unit Value	6 units
Course Description	Sustainability issues cannot be easily addressed within a single discipline. Sustainability research requires diverse expertise and knowledge. This course explores integrative research and project planning to address sustainability issues. Key aspects of integrative research considered in this course include conducting research in the context of complexity, research that crosses disciplinary and academic/non-academic divides, community participation in integrative research, integrative research design and the goals and politics of research. The course is interactive and involves a high level of student participation. Note: Graduate students attend joint classes with later year undergraduate students but are assessed separately.
Learning Outcomes	On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to: 1. Identify and critically evaluate integrative research methods from the academic literature on sustainability 2. Demonstrate an understanding of the methodological challenges posed by integrative research in the context of sustainability 3. Demonstrate an understanding of the practical challenges posed by integrative research in the context of sustainability 4. Conduct or participate effectively in integrative research projects.
Indicative Assessment	Assessment will be based on: Case study of a an integrative reseach method, with 2500-word report and 15 minute class presentation (20%; LO 1, 2) Participation in a group project that develops and applies an integrative research methodology (40%; LO 1, 2, 3, 4) Leading a class tutorial that aims to build class identified integrative skills (10%; LO 3, 4) 3 hour exam to demonstrate critical assessment of an integrative research project report (30%; LO 1, 2)
Workload	2 hr lectures and 2 hrs tutorials, 65 contact hours over the semester
Course Classification(s)	AdvancedAdvanced courses are designed for students having reached 'first degree' level of assumed knowledge, which provide a deep understanding of contemporary issues; or 'second degree' and higher levels of knowledge; or for transition to research training programs.
Areas of Interest	Resource Management and Environmental Science
Eligibility	Bachelor degree; no specific knowledge required.
Preliminary Reading	van Kerkhoff, L. (2005). Integrated research: concepts of connection in environmental science and policy, Environmental Science & Policy, 8(5), 439-463.
Programs	Master of Climate Change and Master of Environment
Academic Contact	Dr Lorrae van Kerkhoff

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