Students

ENVS819 – Environmental Health

2019 – S2 Evening

General Information

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Unit convenor and teaching staff Unit convenor and teaching staff Convener, Lecturer
Christina Magill
christina.r.magill@mq.edu.au
By appointment
Lecturer
Paul Beggs
paul.beggs@mq.edu.au
By appointment
Credit points Credit points
4
Prerequisites Prerequisites
Admission to MEnv or MSc or GradDipEnv or GradCertEnv or MEnvPlan or MPlan or MPH or MSusDev or GradDipSusDev or GradCertSusDev or GradCertDevStudGlobalHlth or MWldMgt or MMarScMgt or MConsBiol or GradDipConsBiol or MDevStud or MScInnovation
Corequisites Corequisites
Co-badged status Co-badged status
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.

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 and deep research 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
Research literature review 30% No 27 September 2019
Research project report 50% No 1 November 2019
Class presentation 20% No 5 November 2019

Research literature review

Due: 27 September 2019
Weighting: 30%

The Research literature review is the first of three related components that comprise the major assessment task for ENVS819. 

Your research is an original investigation into a contemporary environmental health topic drawn from any of the ENVS819 lecture topics*     (refer to the lecture schedule and iLearn resource)

 

  • With the final research project report (Assessment 5) in mind, this short literature review requires you to read and review selected material related to your selected topic.
  • You must use a minimum of twelve (12) references based on academic journal articles and published reports.
  • The short literature review should be used to develop a broad familiarity with the selected research topic, which will be explored in greater depth in the final project report.  
  • The short literature review should highlight any research gaps or controversies and include a concise conclusion.
  • Refer to the marking rubric for more information.

* Other project topics may be accepted but must be discussed with the unit convenor before submitting this assessment.

 

Referencing:

Correct referencing style (in-text and final reference list) is a major component of this assessment task.      

You must correctly use an accepted reference style for this assessment.  Harvard and Vancouver styles are preferred.   Make sure you follow the correct citation style for your assessments: in-text and final reference list.

 

NB: 1,000 words   (Word count DOES NOT include the reference list) 
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 and deep research 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.
  • Appreciate the interdisciplinary nature of environmental health professionals skills and knowledge in the context of other units of study.

Research project report

Due: 1 November 2019
Weighting: 50%

Report requirements:  

The project should present a thorough investigation into the selected topic that was submitted as Assessment 3 (Research project literature review).

 

The report should include the following sections and components: 

  •     Title page
  •     Table of Contents
  •     Introduction
  •     Background to the environmental health issue
  •     Review of the current status of the environmental health issue
  •     Challenges, obstacles and controversies related to the environmental health issue
  •     Conclusion
  •     Reference list (correct style required e.g. Harvard or Vancouver)
  •     Appendix (optional)
  •     Line spacing should be 1.5
  •     Page numbers 

 

Graphics:

Tables, maps, diagrams, photos, etc. are highly encouraged and recommended to add-value and illustrate the report where appropriate.  Make sure you link all your graphics with the text - do not simply place a graphic in the report without including some comments. Ensure all graphics are captioned and correctly referenced. Graphics can be inserted in-text or compiled in an appendix. 

 

Referencing:

Correct referencing style (in-text and final reference list) is a major component of this assessment task.

You must correctly use an accepted reference style for this assessment.  Harvard and Vancouver styles are preferred.   Make sure you follow the correct citation style for your assessments: in-text and final reference list .

 

Refer to the marking rubric for more information.

 

NB: 3,000 words   (Word count DOES NOT include the reference list, tables, figures or appendix) 
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 and deep research 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.

Class presentation

Due: 5 November 2019
Weighting: 20%

The oral presentation and background slide will provide a summary of your research project communicating key ideas and issues.

 

You are required to:  

 

  • Submit via iLearn, one (1) original background slide* (PDF format) that represents your research project environmental health topic. 
  • Present a brief oral presentation to the class (5 minutes maximum) that clearly and concisely summarises your research project topic.  
  • 5 minutes talking is approximately 500-600 words.

Refer to the marking rubric for more information.

 

* Your background slide must be original and highlight the research project topic of your talk.
On successful completion you will be able to:
  • 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.

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 for 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 4, 7 and 8. 

In Weeks 12 and 13, all students are required to be available and present their research project to the class - this is Assessment task 3.

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:

Unit Schedule

Week

Date

Topic

1

30 July

Introduction to the unit

2

6 August

Risk assessment and management.

3

13 August

Hazardous materials: the good, the bad and the ugly

4

20 August

ONLINE MODULE 1

Water and sanitation in developing countries

5

27 August

Food safety

6

3 September

Conflict, natural hazard crises and environmental health

7

10 September

ONLINE MODULE 2

Environmental Justice

 

14 September

-

29 September

             UNIVERSITY RECESS

8

1 October

ONLINE MODULE 3

Pollution: a global public health crisis        

9

8 October

Water, climate and environmental health

10

15 October

Air quality: indoor, outdoor

11

22 October

Certain infectious and parasitic diseases

12

29 October

Student research project presentations

13

5 November

Student research project presentations

Policies and Procedures

Macquarie University policies and procedures are accessible from Policy Central (https://staff.mq.edu.au/work/strategy-planning-and-governance/university-policies-and-procedures/policy-central). Students should be aware of the following policies in particular with regard to Learning and Teaching:

Undergraduate students seeking more policy resources can visit the Student Policy Gateway (https://students.mq.edu.au/support/study/student-policy-gateway). It is your one-stop-shop for the key policies you need to know about throughout your undergraduate student journey.

If you would like to see all the policies relevant to Learning and Teaching visit Policy Central (https://staff.mq.edu.au/work/strategy-planning-and-governance/university-policies-and-procedures/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/study/getting-started/student-conduct​

Results

Results published on platform other than eStudent, (eg. iLearn, Coursera etc.) 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 or if you are a Global MBA student contact globalmba.support@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

If you are a Global MBA student contact globalmba.support@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 critical, analytical and integrative thinking and deep research skills by class discussions and reading key environmental health reports, journals, and internet resources.
  • Appreciate the interdisciplinary nature of environmental health professionals skills and knowledge in the context of other units of study.

Assessment tasks

  • Research literature review
  • Research project report
  • Class presentation

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 and deep research 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

  • Research literature review
  • Research project report
  • Class presentation

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 critical, analytical and integrative thinking and deep research 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

  • Research literature review
  • Research project report
  • Class presentation

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.
  • 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

  • Research literature review
  • Research project report
  • Class presentation

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 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 and deep research 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

  • Research literature review
  • Research project report
  • Class presentation

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 and deep research 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

  • Research literature review
  • Research project report
  • Class presentation

Changes since First Published

Date Description
30/07/2019 Contact details updated. Assessment due dates corrected.