Environmental Rehabilitation

Unit code: RBF3210 | Study level: Undergraduate
Credit points
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
Footscray Park
Prerequisites
RBF1310 - Biology 1
RBF1320 - Biology 2
RBF2610 - Fundamentals of Ecology
RBF2620 - Australian Plants (applicable for EBED students ONLY)
(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)
Overview
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Overview

This unit Environmental Rehabilitation explores the principles, practices and perspectives that underpin traditional and contemporary restoration ecology. A variety of tools that assist in the rehabilitation of modified and degraded terrestrial environments and communities will be investigated. Topics include environmental policy, standards in restoration ecology, rewilding, novel ecosystems and the ecological parameters and processes for traditional and contemporary restoration of diverse environments. Rehabilitation projects based on approaches using ecological theory will be formulated using contemporary case studies. Practical activities will include hands-on experience in the use of frameworks to assess native reference ecosystems and develop, conduct and evaluate site specific ecological restoration programs.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

  1. Formulate and elucidate traditional (historical) and contemporary ecological principles to environmental rehabilitation practices with creativity and responsibility, contributing to local and global communities;
  2. Create a restoration plan for the reintroduction of appropriate species to restore ecological habitats;
  3. Articulate in oral and written form to professionals and peers on approaches to restoration based on complex ecological principles;
  4. Critique traditional and contemporary methods for restoring ecological communities, species and habitats, exercising professional judgement; and
  5. Evaluate, argue and implement the principles of restoration and reconciliation ecology to contemporary, environmental issues and propose creative and sound solutions.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Presentation
|
Grade: 10%
Chapter Critique Video (5 mins)
Assessment type: Portfolio
|
Grade: 60%
Restoration Portfolio
Assessment type: Presentation
|
Grade: 30%
Oral Presentation with Q & A (10 min)

Portfolio will consist of a background report, a site restoration report and verification of student understanding of restoration plan during field trip.

Required reading

Required readings will be made available on VU Collaborate.

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):

Bachelor of Outdoor Education and Environmental Science
SBOE | Bachelor degree | Duration: 3 years

Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course. VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.

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