Students
ENVS819 – Environmental Health
2017 – S2 Evening
General Information
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| Unit convenor and teaching staff |
Unit convenor and teaching staff
lecturer and unit convenor
Frank Siciliano
Contact via email
12 Wallys Walk room 519
during semester Thursday 2-5pm or by appointment
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| Credit points |
Credit points
4
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| Prerequisites |
Prerequisites
Admission to MEnv or MSc or GradDipEnv or GradCertEnv or MEnvPlan or MPlan or MPH or MSusDev or GradDipSusDev or GradCertSusDev or MWldMgt or MMarScMgt or MConsBiol or GradDipConsBiol or MDevStud
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| Corequisites |
Corequisites
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| Co-badged status |
Co-badged status
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| Unit description |
Unit description
This unit explores those aspects of human health determined by physical, chemical, biological and social components of the environment. The unit explores this relationship through a broad range of local, regional, national and international topics including the interrelationships between physical, biological and socio-economic environments; population and environmental health measures and methods; identifying the causes, impacts and mitigation of environmental hazards; the regulatory framework covering various aspects of local and national environmental health; and emerging issues in environmental health such as climate change and globalisation.
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Important Academic Dates
Information about important academic dates including deadlines for withdrawing from units are available at https://www.mq.edu.au/study/calendar-of-dates
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:
- Develop a broad understanding and knowledge of the nature of environmental health issues at different geographic scales - local, regional, national and global.
- Develop critical, analytical and integrative thinking skills by class discussions and reading key environmental health reports, journals, and internet resources.
- Prepare and present a detailed research investigation on a specific environmental health topic utilising advanced science communication skills and considered opinion highlighting the nature of the issue, population affected, key findings and recommendations.
- Gain the confidence and capacity to contribute to public discourse on a range of environmental health issues.
- Appreciate the interdisciplinary nature of environmental health professionals skills and knowledge in the context of other units of study.
Assessment Tasks
| Name | Weighting | Hurdle | Due |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online module 1 review | 10% | No | 18 August 2017 @ 9pm |
| Online module 2 review | 10% | No | Friday 8 September 2017 @ 9pm |
| Research project proosal | 15% | No | Friday 22 September 2017 @ 9pm |
| Online module 3 review | 10% | No | Friday 20 October 2017 @ 9pm |
| Research project presentation | 15% | No | Thursday 2 November @ 6pm |
| Research project report | 40% | No | Friday 10 November 2017 @ 9pm |
Online module 1 review
Due: 18 August 2017 @ 9pm
Weighting: 10%
Based on readings and online Audio Visual material provided for this module (Healthy urban planning and housing), each student must provide responses to a series of questions that demonstrate completion of the module and an understanding of the issues and challenges related to this topic.
Maximum 300 words.
On successful completion you will be able to:
- Develop a broad understanding and knowledge of the nature of environmental health issues at different geographic scales - local, regional, national and global.
- Gain the confidence and capacity to contribute to public discourse on a range of environmental health issues.
- Appreciate the interdisciplinary nature of environmental health professionals skills and knowledge in the context of other units of study.
Online module 2 review
Due: Friday 8 September 2017 @ 9pm
Weighting: 10%
Based on readings and online Audio Visual material provided for this module (Food safety), each student must provide responses to a series of questions that demonstrate completion of the module and an understanding of the issues and challenges related to this topic.
Maximum 300 words.
On successful completion you will be able to:
- Develop a broad understanding and knowledge of the nature of environmental health issues at different geographic scales - local, regional, national and global.
- Gain the confidence and capacity to contribute to public discourse on a range of environmental health issues.
- Appreciate the interdisciplinary nature of environmental health professionals skills and knowledge in the context of other units of study.
Research project proosal
Due: Friday 22 September 2017 @ 9pm
Weighting: 15%
This is the first of three related assessment tasks for ENVS819.
With the major research project in mind (Assessment 6), this Research project proposal requires each student to submit an outline of a selected contemporary environmental health topic with at least five (5) relevant references.
One relevant case study is required to highlight the issue being researched.
The proposal should be used to develop a broad familiarity with the selected topic which will be explored in greater detail in the final major research project in mind (Assessment 6).
500 words plus five (5) references.
On successful completion you will be able to:
- Develop a broad understanding and knowledge of the nature of environmental health issues at different geographic scales - local, regional, national and global.
- Develop critical, analytical and integrative thinking skills by class discussions and reading key environmental health reports, journals, and internet resources.
- Prepare and present a detailed research investigation on a specific environmental health topic utilising advanced science communication skills and considered opinion highlighting the nature of the issue, population affected, key findings and recommendations.
- Gain the confidence and capacity to contribute to public discourse on a range of environmental health issues.
- Appreciate the interdisciplinary nature of environmental health professionals skills and knowledge in the context of other units of study.
Online module 3 review
Due: Friday 20 October 2017 @ 9pm
Weighting: 10%
Based on readings and online Audio Visual material provided for this module (Environmental justice), each student must provide responses to a series of questions that demonstrate completion of the module and an understanding of the issues and challenges related to this topic.
Maximum 300 words.
On successful completion you will be able to:
- Develop a broad understanding and knowledge of the nature of environmental health issues at different geographic scales - local, regional, national and global.
- Gain the confidence and capacity to contribute to public discourse on a range of environmental health issues.
- Appreciate the interdisciplinary nature of environmental health professionals skills and knowledge in the context of other units of study.
Research project presentation
Due: Thursday 2 November @ 6pm
Weighting: 15%
This is the second of three related assessment tasks for ENVS819 and focuses on public speaking and communication.
Considering the major research project report, each student is required to stand and deliver a clear and concise 3 minute oral presentation to the class explaining the research topic highlighting any key issues, obstacles and challenges. Each student should be prepared to answer questions from the class at the end of each presentation. Powerpoint or Adobe PDF can be used to support the oral presentation but this is limited to 1 static slide only with no transitions, sound or animations allowed.
In addition to the oral presentation, each student is required to prepare and submit an informative (1 x A4 page) infographic related to the research topic.
For tips and examples refer to the "3 minute thesis" references:
5% for oral presentation (3 minutes maximum)
plus
10% for infographic (1 x A4 page).
On successful completion you will be able to:
- Develop critical, analytical and integrative thinking skills by class discussions and reading key environmental health reports, journals, and internet resources.
- Prepare and present a detailed research investigation on a specific environmental health topic utilising advanced science communication skills and considered opinion highlighting the nature of the issue, population affected, key findings and recommendations.
- Gain the confidence and capacity to contribute to public discourse on a range of environmental health issues.
- Appreciate the interdisciplinary nature of environmental health professionals skills and knowledge in the context of other units of study.
Research project report
Due: Friday 10 November 2017 @ 9pm
Weighting: 40%
This is the final component of each students individual environmental health research and builds on Assessment 3 (Research project proposal) and Assessment 5 (oral presentation and infographic).
The report should include the following sections and components:
- Title page
- Abstract (half page maximum)
- Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Detailed analysis of the issue
- Case study
- Conclusion
- References (correct style required e.g. Harvard)
- Appendices (where appropriate)
- Line spacing should be 1.5
- Page numbers
Tables, maps, diagrams, photos, etc. can be used in the report where appropriate. They can inserted either in-text or compiled in an appendix. Ensure all graphics have a caption and are correctly referenced. Ensure that all graphics are referred to in the text of the report.
3,000 words maximum (word limit does not include the reference list, tables, figures or appendicies)
On successful completion you will be able to:
- Develop a broad understanding and knowledge of the nature of environmental health issues at different geographic scales - local, regional, national and global.
- Develop critical, analytical and integrative thinking skills by class discussions and reading key environmental health reports, journals, and internet resources.
- Prepare and present a detailed research investigation on a specific environmental health topic utilising advanced science communication skills and considered opinion highlighting the nature of the issue, population affected, key findings and recommendations.
- Gain the confidence and capacity to contribute to public discourse on a range of environmental health issues.
- Appreciate the interdisciplinary nature of environmental health professionals skills and knowledge in the context of other units of study.
Delivery and Resources
Lectures:
The weekly 3 hour lecture block is the main mode of face-to-face delivery in this unit. The format is a mix of formal presentations, class discussions and student exercises. Active student participation and engagement is expected by all students.
The lectures are recorded using the Echo 360 Active Learning Platform and can be accessed via the ENVS819 iLearn page.
Three (3) online modules have been developed for completion in Weeks 3, 6 and 10. There are assessments task linked to each online module - Assessments 1, 2 and 4.
In Week 12, all students are required to be available and present their research project to the class - this is Assessment task 5.
iLearn:
ENVS819 makes extensive use of iLearn as the primary portal for information and class communication. All lecture materials, supplementary resources, background readings, key reports and articles and websites are provided via the iLearn page. iLearn "Announcements" and the "Discussion Forums" are utilised and all students are required to login regularly (at least once per week). It is expected that all students will actively engage and participate in the online and class discussions.
Given the contemporary nature of this subject, regular use is made of the Environmental Health News service: http://www.environmentalhealthnews.org/ and all students are encouraged to subscribe to the daily EH News e-letter to assist with learning.
Key websites include:
- NSW Environment Protection Agency (EPA) http://www.epa.nsw.gov.au/
- World Health Organisation (WHO) Public Health and Environment http://www.who.int/phe/en/
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) National Center for Environmental Health https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/
- Co-operative Research Centre (CRC) for Contamination Assessment and Remediation of the Environment (CARE) http://www.crccare.com/
- Australian Indigenous Health InfoNet http://www.healthinfonet.ecu.edu.au/
- Environmental Health Australia knowledge centre https://www.eh.org.au/resources/knowledge-centre
- NSW Ministry of Health Environmental Health Branch http://www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/Pages/default.aspx
- WHO International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) https://www.iarc.fr/
Unit Schedule
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Week |
Date |
Topic * |
Comments/Notes |
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1 |
3 August 2017 |
Introduction to the unit |
Unit overview |
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2 |
10 August 2017 |
Risk assessment and management; Health Impact Assessments; Case studies. |
Tools, methods and data; communication |
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3 |
17 August 2017 |
ONLINE MODULE 1: Healthy urban planning and houses |
Design, materials, master planning |
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4 |
24 August 2017 |
Hazardous materials: the good, the bad and the ugly |
Types; exposure; occupational hazards; regulation; controversies |
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5 |
31 August 2017 |
Air quality |
Indoor, outdoor, aeroallergens |
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6 |
7 September 2017 |
ONLINE MODULE 2: Food safety |
Different contexts; types of foods; standards and regulations |
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7 |
14 September 2017 |
Weather, climate and environmental health |
Climate change 101; key issues; controversies; vulnerable populations and environments |
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16 September - 1 October 2017 |
UNIVERSITY RECESS |
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8 |
5 October 2017 |
Certain infectious and parasitic diseases |
Epidemics and pandemics; ICD classifications and data |
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9 |
12 October 2017 |
Water and sanitation in developing countries |
International development challenges and obstacles |
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10 |
19 October 2017 |
ONLINE MODULE 3: Environmental justice |
Indigenous communities, socio-economic disadvantage and location. |
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11 |
26 October 2017 |
Conflict, crises and environmental health |
War, natural hazards, case studies |
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12 |
2 November 2017 |
Student research project presentations |
Public speaking and science communication skills |
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13 |
9 November 2017 |
Final: Subject review |
Discussion; AV showcase; student feedback |
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| * These are subject to change. Advanced notice will be provided. | ||||
Policies and Procedures
Macquarie University policies and procedures are accessible from Policy Central. Students should be aware of the following policies in particular with regard to Learning and Teaching:
Academic Honesty Policy http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/academic_honesty/policy.html
Assessment Policy http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/assessment/policy_2016.html
Grade Appeal Policy http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/gradeappeal/policy.html
Complaint Management Procedure for Students and Members of the Public http://www.mq.edu.au/policy/docs/complaint_management/procedure.html
Disruption to Studies Policy (in effect until Dec 4th, 2017): http://www.mq.edu.au/policy/docs/disruption_studies/policy.html
Special Consideration Policy (in effect from Dec 4th, 2017): https://staff.mq.edu.au/work/strategy-planning-and-governance/university-policies-and-procedures/policies/special-consideration
In addition, a number of other policies can be found in the Learning and Teaching Category of Policy Central.
Student Code of Conduct
Macquarie University students have a responsibility to be familiar with the Student Code of Conduct: https://students.mq.edu.au/support/student_conduct/
Results
Results shown in iLearn, or released directly by your Unit Convenor, are not confirmed as they are subject to final approval by the University. Once approved, final results will be sent to your student email address and will be made available in eStudent. For more information visit ask.mq.edu.au.
Student Support
Macquarie University provides a range of support services for students. For details, visit http://students.mq.edu.au/support/
Learning Skills
Learning Skills (mq.edu.au/learningskills) provides academic writing resources and study strategies to improve your marks and take control of your study.
Student Services and Support
Students with a disability are encouraged to contact the Disability Service who can provide appropriate help with any issues that arise during their studies.
Student Enquiries
For all student enquiries, visit Student Connect at ask.mq.edu.au
IT Help
For help with University computer systems and technology, visit http://www.mq.edu.au/about_us/offices_and_units/information_technology/help/.
When using the University's IT, you must adhere to the Acceptable Use of IT Resources Policy. The policy applies to all who connect to the MQ network including students.
Graduate Capabilities
PG - Capable of Professional and Personal Judgment and Initiative
Our postgraduates will demonstrate a high standard of discernment and common sense in their professional and personal judgment. They will have the ability to make informed choices and decisions that reflect both the nature of their professional work and their personal perspectives.
This graduate capability is supported by:
Learning outcomes
- Develop a broad understanding and knowledge of the nature of environmental health issues at different geographic scales - local, regional, national and global.
- Gain the confidence and capacity to contribute to public discourse on a range of environmental health issues.
- Appreciate the interdisciplinary nature of environmental health professionals skills and knowledge in the context of other units of study.
Assessment tasks
- Online module 1 review
- Online module 2 review
- Research project proosal
- Online module 3 review
- Research project presentation
- Research project report
PG - Discipline Knowledge and Skills
Our postgraduates will be able to demonstrate a significantly enhanced depth and breadth of knowledge, scholarly understanding, and specific subject content knowledge in their chosen fields.
This graduate capability is supported by:
Learning outcomes
- Develop a broad understanding and knowledge of the nature of environmental health issues at different geographic scales - local, regional, national and global.
- Develop critical, analytical and integrative thinking skills by class discussions and reading key environmental health reports, journals, and internet resources.
- Prepare and present a detailed research investigation on a specific environmental health topic utilising advanced science communication skills and considered opinion highlighting the nature of the issue, population affected, key findings and recommendations.
- Gain the confidence and capacity to contribute to public discourse on a range of environmental health issues.
- Appreciate the interdisciplinary nature of environmental health professionals skills and knowledge in the context of other units of study.
Assessment tasks
- Online module 1 review
- Online module 2 review
- Research project proosal
- Online module 3 review
- Research project presentation
- Research project report
PG - Critical, Analytical and Integrative Thinking
Our postgraduates will be capable of utilising and reflecting on prior knowledge and experience, of applying higher level critical thinking skills, and of integrating and synthesising learning and knowledge from a range of sources and environments. A characteristic of this form of thinking is the generation of new, professionally oriented knowledge through personal or group-based critique of practice and theory.
This graduate capability is supported by:
Learning outcomes
- Develop a broad understanding and knowledge of the nature of environmental health issues at different geographic scales - local, regional, national and global.
- Develop critical, analytical and integrative thinking skills by class discussions and reading key environmental health reports, journals, and internet resources.
- Gain the confidence and capacity to contribute to public discourse on a range of environmental health issues.
Assessment tasks
- Online module 1 review
- Online module 2 review
- Research project proosal
- Online module 3 review
- Research project report
PG - Research and Problem Solving Capability
Our postgraduates will be capable of systematic enquiry; able to use research skills to create new knowledge that can be applied to real world issues, or contribute to a field of study or practice to enhance society. They will be capable of creative questioning, problem finding and problem solving.
This graduate capability is supported by:
Learning outcomes
- Develop a broad understanding and knowledge of the nature of environmental health issues at different geographic scales - local, regional, national and global.
- Develop critical, analytical and integrative thinking skills by class discussions and reading key environmental health reports, journals, and internet resources.
- Prepare and present a detailed research investigation on a specific environmental health topic utilising advanced science communication skills and considered opinion highlighting the nature of the issue, population affected, key findings and recommendations.
Assessment tasks
- Online module 1 review
- Online module 2 review
- Research project proosal
- Online module 3 review
- Research project presentation
- Research project report
PG - Effective Communication
Our postgraduates will be able to communicate effectively and convey their views to different social, cultural, and professional audiences. They will be able to use a variety of technologically supported media to communicate with empathy using a range of written, spoken or visual formats.
This graduate capability is supported by:
Learning outcomes
- Develop critical, analytical and integrative thinking skills by class discussions and reading key environmental health reports, journals, and internet resources.
- Prepare and present a detailed research investigation on a specific environmental health topic utilising advanced science communication skills and considered opinion highlighting the nature of the issue, population affected, key findings and recommendations.
- Gain the confidence and capacity to contribute to public discourse on a range of environmental health issues.
Assessment tasks
- Research project proosal
- Research project presentation
- Research project report
PG - Engaged and Responsible, Active and Ethical Citizens
Our postgraduates will be ethically aware and capable of confident transformative action in relation to their professional responsibilities and the wider community. They will have a sense of connectedness with others and country and have a sense of mutual obligation. They will be able to appreciate the impact of their professional roles for social justice and inclusion related to national and global issues
This graduate capability is supported by:
Learning outcomes
- Develop a broad understanding and knowledge of the nature of environmental health issues at different geographic scales - local, regional, national and global.
- Develop critical, analytical and integrative thinking skills by class discussions and reading key environmental health reports, journals, and internet resources.
- Gain the confidence and capacity to contribute to public discourse on a range of environmental health issues.
- Appreciate the interdisciplinary nature of environmental health professionals skills and knowledge in the context of other units of study.
Assessment tasks
- Research project proosal
- Online module 3 review
- Research project report
Changes from Previous Offering
The unit has been redesigned following a Department review at the end of 2015.
The use of guest lecturers including Macquarie University academics, government and industry specialists is no longer a key aspect of this unit.
Three (3) new online modules have been developed following student feedback from previous offerings of this unit.