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Humans: Earth Shapers
Undergraduate | TAS-XBR9112 | 2020
Course information for 2020 intake
- Study method
- 100% online
- Assessments
- 100% online
- Entry requirements
- Part of a degree
- Duration
- 14 weeks
HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP available
Humans: Earth Shapers
About this subject
Upon completion of this subject, the student should be able to:
- Outline the current scientific theories of how Earth’s natural systems change through time
- Describe the impacts of humans on Earth’s natural systems
- Identify the values held by you and others in relation to human impacts on natural systems
- Explain the role of governance on shaping human impacts on Earth’s natural systems
- Earth systems
- Philosophy
- Rock Record
- Earth systems exchange
- Ecology and evolution
- Extinctions
- Early Humans
- Governance
- Anthropocene
- 6th Mass extinction
- Geoengineering
- Synthesis
Earth is a lively and dynamic planet that is undergoing rapid changes wrought by the activities of humans. In what ways are these changes impacting on us and other species? Are we precipitating another mass extinction; the 6 the major mass extinction, since life exploded on Earth some 500 million years ago? How will the way humans formulate and apply international and national policies continue to drive change? What are our own values regarding change and how does that colour our perceptions of Earth Shaping?
This subject will explore some dilemmas of Earth Shaping through the prisms of science, philosophy and governance. Online content investigates the scientific theories of modern Earth and life systems and along with practicals and quizzes, delves into the rock record to understand some mechanisms of past extinctions. A short essay provides the opportunity to express your own values and recognize those of others. Discussions with tutors and peers will engender debate on how values and human governance impacts go beyond local solutions to help us shape a planet we want to call home.
The final design project will mesh Earth systems, human impacts and questions of governance. It will provide a launching point for discussions between peers. Time is allocated for modification of individual projects and reflection on final submissions.
More than ever before humans are a force of nature that can reprogram the planet. Understanding our abilities means that we are probably the first ever species to consider limiting our activities. Overviews in science, philosophy and policies will equip participants to better understand our unique position and impacts as human Earth shapers.
- : Reading the rock record practical and timeline quiz (20%)
- Values essay (20%)
- Discussion Board Contributions (20%)
- Infographic (40%)
For textbook details check your university's handbook, website or learning management system (LMS).
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Entry requirements
To enrol in this subject, you must be admitted into a degree.
Additional requirements
No additional requirements
Study load
- 0.125 EFTSL
- This is in the range of 10 to 12 hours of study each week.
Equivalent full time study load (EFTSL) is one way to calculate your study load. One (1.0) EFTSL is equivalent to a full-time study load for one year.
Find out more information on Commonwealth Loans to understand what this means to your eligibility for financial support.