Key facts
UNE unit code: ECOL320
*You are viewing the 2025 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 2 - Online
- Yes
- Yes
- No
- 6
Unit information
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A central goal of conservation biology is the conservation of genetic diversity within species, as it provides the capacity for organisms to evolve. Plants, animals and other organisms must adapt if they are to survive in our changing world. The loss of genetic diversity can lead organisms into an extinction vortex.
This unit combines the theory and practice of conservation ecology, with emphasis on current conservation questions and tools. You will engage with real world data sets and equip yourself with the tools to interpret conservation genetics results in practice.
With constant advancement in molecular technology and new applications for big data driving development and innovation, add value to your career with the skills and knowledge needed to apply genetic and genomic analyses to the ecology and management of natural populations.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
Teaching period | Mode/location |
---|---|
Trimester 2 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
Start | Finish | Duration | Attendance | Offerings | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
TBA | TBA | 3 days | Mandatory Intensive School | All offerings | All students must attend the mandatory intensive school. Dates to be advised. |
Enrolment rules
Notes
A range of software will be used, including GenAIEx, R, RStudio and STRUCTURE; The School of Environmental and Rural Science considers all practical/laboratory/tutorial activities as essential to student learning. Attendance and participation in all practical/laboratory/tutorial classes (sessions) is mandatory - exemptions will not be granted without supporting evidence; All on campus and online students must attend the mandatory intensive school.
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
![profile photo of Rose Andrew](https://www.une.edu.au/__data/assets/image/0020/80471/varieties/69x77.jpg)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- demonstrate a depth of knowledge of the subject by describing and evaluating the use of molecular markers in addressing conservation challenges;
- demonstrate the application of knowledge relevant to the subject and the ability to work autonomously by designing and justifying a sampling regime for the study of a conservation genetics question;
- analyse a population-level data set and thereby demonstrate technical skill and the ability to evaluate information; and
- effectively communicate research results using scientific conventions.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|
Essay | Yes | 30% | All offerings | A case study on the application of molecular tools to the conservation of endangered species. No. Words: 2000 |
Practical | Yes | All offerings | The School of Environmental and Rural Science considers all practical/laboratory/tutorial activities as essential to student learning. Attendance and participation in all practical/laboratory/tutorial classes (sessions) is mandatory - exemptions will not be granted without supporting evidence. | |
Practical Report | Yes | 30% | All offerings | Analyse real-world data and report results No. Words: 1500 |
Research Proposal | Yes | 30% | All offerings | Design a research project and write a proposal for funding No. Words: 1500 |
Weekly Quizzes | Yes | 10% | All offerings | No. Words: 400 |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Recommended material is held in the University Library — purchase is optional.
Conservation and the Genomics of Populations
ISBN: 9780198856573
Allendorf F. W., Funk W. C., Aitken S. N., Byrne M., Luikart G., Oxford University Press 3rd ed. 2022
Text refers to: All offerings
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Studying online
At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian university.
We understand the challenges faced by busy adults studying at home. We know that a vital part of online study is your engagement with the learning community. Communication with your classmates, teaching staff and university support staff will enhance your study experience and ensure that your skills extend beyond the subject matter. UNE’s teaching staff are experts in their field which is why UNE consistently receives five stars from students for teaching quality, support and overall experience.*
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