Overview
Historical biogeography of plants; plant adaptations and vegetation dynamics; world biome types; plants and society; human impacts on vegetation.
Learn about sustainability and the environment of Aotearoa New Zealand. Using plants and vegetation as a backbone, this paper covers the fundamental science of how the natural environment works and the way human-environment relationships shape the way the world looks today. We will explore threats to species and ecosystems as well as options and pathways for sustainable environmental management.
About this paper
| Paper title | Plants, People and the Environment |
|---|---|
| Subject | Geography |
| EFTS | 0.15 |
| Points | 18 points |
| Teaching period | Semester 1 (On campus) |
| Domestic Tuition Fees ( NZD ) | $1,318.20 |
| International Tuition Fees | Tuition Fees for international students are elsewhere on this website. |
- Prerequisite
- 54 GEOG points or 72 points from Science Schedule C or higher
- Restriction
- GEOG 287
- Schedule C
- Arts and Music, Science
- Eligibility
An interest and basic understanding of biogeographical and ecological principles will be beneficial but is not essential for this paper.
- Contact
- geography@otago.ac.nz
- Teaching staff
Dr Ralf Ohlemüller as principal lecturer and team of demonstrators for teaching and hands-on support of the practical programme.
- Paper Structure
This paper is delivered through lectures, guided practicals and self-directed exercises and group work.
- Teaching Arrangements
This paper covers a range of teaching and learning styles, from heavily instructed exercises to self-directed, problem-solving activities. A key emphasis is on different knowledge systems and the connections between fundamental science and applied real-world problems.
- Textbooks
There is no set textbook for this paper. Relevant readings will be introduced during the paper.
- Course outline
- Graduate Attributes Emphasised
- Global perspective, Interdisciplinary perspective, Environmental literacy, Information literacy.
View more information about Otago's graduate attributes. - Learning Outcomes
- Understanding ecosystem processes at a range of scales
- Understanding natural and anthropogenic environmental change
- Awareness and understanding different environmental knowledge systems
- Ability to address biogeographical research questions through conducting small research projects
- Critical engagement with environmental data and information.