UnitLevel 2Undergraduate

EAE2322 Soil, water and vegetation

Faculty of Science

EAE2322 Soil, water and vegetation is a level 2, 6-credit-point, undergraduate unit from the Faculty of Science, offered in 2027 in Semester 2 at Clayton. It has no prerequisites and unlocks 3 units.

Credit points
6
Offered in 2027
Semester 2
Clayton
Assessment
Exam 25%
and 3 other tasks

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Requisites

Before EAE2322

No prerequisites or corequisites besides the enrolment rules below.

Enrolment rules

PREREQUISITE: One of ATS1301, ATS1310, ESC1011 or EAE1022

PROHIBITION: ATS2774, ESC2122, GES2170

Overview

In this unit, you will learn to analyse the intricate relationship between soils, water, and vegetation in natural and human-modified environments. These components play a critical role in the development, maintenance, and functioning of ecosystems. You  will explore how human activities influence these fundamental processes. Throughout the course, you will gain a deep understanding of how both biotic and abiotic factors shape natural and managed ecosystems. You will explore the interactions between soils, water, and vegetation, uncovering their significant roles in ecosystem functioning. You will also examine broader-scale issues, such as the impact of human actions and climatic factors on land, water and vegetation management and conservation. You will analyse the complex interactions that define the relationship between humans and the natural world.

Offerings in 2027

Teaching periodCampusMode
Second semesterClaytonOn campus

Assessment

  • Short reportsWritten
    40%
  • QuizzesQuiz / Test
    10%
  • Final reportWritten
    25%
  • Final assessment - Exam (2 hours and 10 minutes)Examination
    25%

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Learning outcomes

When you finish this unit, you should be able to:

  1. 1

    Explain the biotic and abiotic processes that underpin the development of Earth's biosphere and contribute to soil and sediment formation, including their interconnectedness and their impact on water quality hydrological and geomorphological processes, biomes and vegetation;

  2. 2

    Demonstrate practical, hands-on experience to conduct field descriptions and laboratory analyses of vegetation, hydrology, geomorphology, sediments, and soils, using acquired skills to draw conclusions and make informed assessment;

  3. 3

    Identify key soil- and sediment-forming materials and processes, critically evaluating their significance and implications for natural systems;

  4. 4

    Evaluate the role of plants, vegetation, and microorganisms in ecosystem functioning;

  5. 5

    Identify the role of water and rivers in shaping the Earth’s surface and contribution to ecosystem function;

  6. 6

    Analyse interactions between Australia's unique soils, water and vegetation and apply this knowledge to the future conservation and management of natural and managed ecosystems.

Workload and teaching

  • Practical activities36 hours
  • Workshops24 hours
  • Teaching approachActive learning
  • Teaching approachEnquiry-based learning
  • Teaching approachField trips

The workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours spread across the semester (approximately 12 hours per week) - approximately an even mixture of attendance at scheduled activities such as workshops, lectures and laboratories, and self-scheduled study time. Learning activities comprise a mixture of instructor directed, peer-directed and self-directed learning, which includes face-to-face and online engagement.

One 2-day field trip on a weekend during semester

Where it fits

EAE2322 is part of 3 areas of study in the 2027 handbook.

Contacts

Chief Examiners
Dr Vanessa Wong
Unit Coordinators
Dr Vanessa Wong

Common questions

What are the prerequisites for EAE2322?

EAE2322 has no prerequisites, but enrolment rules apply.

What can I take after EAE2322?

EAE2322 is a prerequisite or corequisite for 3 units, including EAE3132, EAE3321 and EAE3342.

When is EAE2322 offered?

In 2027, EAE2322 runs in Semester 2 at Clayton.

Does EAE2322 have an exam?

Yes. The exam is worth 25% of the final mark, alongside 3 other tasks.

Which majors and minors include EAE2322?

EAE2322 is part of Earth science; and Geography and sustainable societies.

More details

Credit points
6
Level
2
Study level
Undergraduate
Faculty
Faculty of Science
Organisational unit
School of Earth, Atmosphere and Environment
Type
Coursework
EFTSL
0.125
Student contribution
SCA Band 2
Study abroad
Available