Marine ecosystems play a crucial role in the health and function of our planet - from tiny plankton that shape global patterns of carbon and sulfur cycling, to massive coral reefs that support enormous biodiversity and feed millions of people. Once thought to be indestructable and inexhaustible, we now know that such marine communities are fragile and easily disturbed. In this course we will use both old and new concepts in marine ecology to explore how healthy marine ecosystems can be conserved in the face of human harvesting, habitat modification and climate change. Taking a problem-based approach, this course will examine six key issues (climate change, pollution, coral reef collapse, overfishing, aquaculture, marine protected areas) through lectures, hands-on tutorials and assessments. Students will gain first-hand experience in the quantitative methods used to describe and assess marine communities, as well as some new presentation skills via novel assessment items such as the role-playing press conference.

On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to:

1. Think critically, analyse and evaluate claims, evidence and arguments concerning marine environmental issues
2. Collect, analyse and present marine ecological data
3. Write scientific articles, environmental status reports and media releases
4. Work and communicate as part of a research team
5. Communicate effectively with a range of audiences
6. Research current issues, interpret relevant legislation and frame solutions to problems facing Australia's marine resources

Assessment will be based on:

• Scientific Report (25%): You will collect data as a class (LO 2, 4), make your own analysis and evaluation of the data-based evidence (LO 1, 2), then present your findings in the style of a scientific article (LO 3).
• Environmental Status Report (25%): Working as a team (LO 4), you will research current scientific information and relevant legislation on a current marine ecological issue (LO 6). You will present your findings and recommendations in a plain-English written report (LO 1, 3).
• Press Conference (10%): Working as a team (LO 4), you will present your findings from the status report as a media release (LO 3) and field questions from a role-playing audience in a staged press conference (LO 5).
• Final Theory Exam (40%): You will be asked to think critically, analyse available information and present a logical argument on questions concerning marine ecological systems (LO 1).

Two lectures per week plus a combination of practicals and field work.

Completion of 96 units, including BIOL2112 OR with permission of convener

EMSC1006

Connell SD, Gillanders BM (2007) Marine Ecology. Oxford University Press, Oxford