Key facts
UNE unit code: EVOL301
*You are viewing the 2025 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 3 - Online
- Yes
- No
- No
- 6
Unit information
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Macroevolution, systematics, and taxonomy provide the fundamental information underpinning our understanding of life on Earth. Whether you are building a career in botany, ecology, palaeontology, or zoology, or seeking to teach and communicate biological sciences, this unit will provide you with the key to evolutionary thinking.
In this unit, you will develop a comprehensive understanding of species concepts, phylogenetic systematics (including reconstruction and interpretation), character evolution, taxonomy, and the applications of these understandings to general evolutionary and conservation questions.
The unit also offers opportunities to develop skills using current macroevolutionary and systematic methods, including computer programs actively used in research at UNE, ensuring you are equipped to conceptualise scientific problems, build and analyse systematic datasets, and communicate solutions to complex problems.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
Teaching period | Mode/location |
---|---|
Trimester 3 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
![profile photo of Nicolas Campione Ruben](https://www.une.edu.au/__data/assets/image/0007/174463/varieties/69x77.jpg)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- demonstrate a broad and coherent understanding of the key concepts of systematics and have practical systematics skills and experience in dealing with organismal diversity;
- demonstrate relevant understanding and practical skills in defining, scoring and analysing character data using appropriate computer programs and this will also demonstrate the student's ability in working autonomously and use well-developed judgment;
- demonstrate a sound understanding of the issues related to phylogenetic analysis and classification;
- conduct phylogenetic analyses using computer programs; this will demonstrate students' ability to analyse, generate and transmit solution to complex problems;
- demonstrate sound skills in appraisal and communication of scientific literature; this information will be transmitted to others using written forms; and
- demonstrate well-developed cognitive skills necessary to critically review, appraise and communicate scientific literature of relevance to systematics.
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 |
---|---|---|---|---|
Practicals and Tutorials | Yes | 25% | All offerings | A series of assessments that builds on methodological and communication skills. No. Words: Equivalent to 1000 |
Report | Yes | 40% | All offerings | No. Words: Equivalent to 3000 |
Take Home Examination | Yes | 35% | All offerings | No. Words: Equivalent to 2000 |
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.
Biological Systematics - Principles and Applications
ISBN: 9781501752773
Brower, Andrew V.Z. and Schuh, Randall T., Cornell University Press 3rd ed, 2021
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.*
*The Good Universities Guide
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