Course Title: STEM for Sustainable Development
Part A: Course Overview
Course Title: STEM for Sustainable Development
Credit Points: 12.00
Terms
Course Code |
Campus |
Career |
School |
Learning Mode |
Teaching Period(s) |
ONPS2702 |
City Campus |
Undergraduate |
171H School of Science |
Face-to-Face |
Sem 1 2022, Sem 2 2022, Sem 1 2023, Sem 2 2024, Sem 1 2025, Sem 2 2025 |
ONPS2728 |
RMIT University Vietnam |
Undergraduate |
171H School of Science |
Face-to-Face |
Viet2 2023, Viet2 2024 |
ONPS2749 |
Bundoora Campus |
Undergraduate |
171H School of Science |
Face-to-Face |
Sem 2 2025 |
Course Coordinator: Nita Lauren
Course Coordinator Phone: -
Course Coordinator Email: nita.lauren@rmit.edu.au
Course Coordinator Availability: Email for appointment
Pre-requisite Courses and Assumed Knowledge and Capabilities
None
Course Description
This course introduces students to the principles and practice of sustainability within contemporary settings, including in the fields of health and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). It offers a holistic, integrative and interdisciplinary consideration of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), current sustainability priorities, and future sustainability trends in relation to STEM and health.
The course will explore the nexus between complex sustainability issues—such as climate change, biodiversity, environmental health, food and nutrition, pollution and contamination, responsible consumption, and sustainable energy and transport systems—and how STEM and health sciences support sustainable solutions. Sharing and communication of diverse viewpoints and expertise from across the STEM and health disciplines will be facilitated to enable collaborative action to address real world sustainability problems.
This course also emphasises the importance of diversity, inclusion, equity, and reconciliation as core drivers of sustainable change and are essential for ensuring diverse voices are heard, valued, and empowered in co-creating sustainable futures for society and the environment. Ultimately, the course will encourage and enable you to bring a sustainability focus, approach, and agency into your future studies and resulting careers.
Objectives/Learning Outcomes/Capability Development
Program Learning Outcomes
This course contributes to the program learning outcomes for the following program(s):
BP350 - Bachelor of Science
PLO1 Apply a broad and coherent knowledge of scientific theories, principles, concepts and practice in one or more scientific disciplines.
PLO2 Analyse and critically examine scientific evidence using methods, technical skills, tools and emerging technologies in a range of scientific activities.
PLO3 Analyse and apply principles of scientific inquiry and critical evaluation to address real-world scientific challenges and inform evidence based decision making.
PLO5 Work independently, with agility, safety, and accountability for own learning and professional future.
BP192P23 - Bachelor of Environmental Science
BH096ESP24 - Bachelor of Environmental Science/Bachelor of Engineering (Environmental Engineering) (Honours)
PLO1 Apply an interdisciplinary knowledge of scientific theories, principles, concepts, and practices in the environmental sciences
PLO3 Apply principles of scientific inquiry, tools, and techniques relevant to environmental science to solve problems informed by evidence-based decision making.
PLO7 Collaborate and contribute within di- verse, multi-disciplinary teams, with commitment to diversity, equity and globally inclusive perspectives and practices including First Nations knowledges and input
BH116P23 - Bachelor of Surveying (Honours)
BH117P23 - Bachelor of Geospatial Science (Honours)
PLO1 Apply advanced and coherent knowledge of theories, principles, concepts, technologies, and specialist practices in your field.
PLO5 Critically evaluate and communicate research findings to diverse audiences utilising contemporary and traditional formats employing integrity and culturally safe practices.
PLO7 Collaborate and contribute within diverse, multi-disciplinary teams, with commitment to diversity, equity and globally inclusive perspectives and practices including First Nations knowledges and input.
BP154P23 - Bachelor of Psychology
PLO 1 Apply breadth and depth of psychology theories, concepts and evidence in various real-world settings using a scientific approach.
PLO 3 Demonstrate the ability to generate and evaluate solutions to all aspects of disciplinary practice while complying with ethical, legal and regulatory standards.
PLO 4 Communicate to diverse audiences utilising contemporary and traditional formats and employing professional integrity, inclusivity and culturally-safe practices
PLO 5 Demonstrate responsibility and accountability for professional decisions and resolve challenges through application of critical thinking and reflective practice, autonomously and as part of a multidisciplinary team
BP231OST - Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Osteopathy)
BP231PATH1 - Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Osteopathy)
BP231P23 - Bachelor of Biomedical Science
BP311P23 - Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Sciences
PLO 2 Apply systematic thinking and a range of high-level analytical skills using a blend of digital and traditional tools and technologies to solve complex scientific and medical problems related to your field
PLO 4 Communicate and collaborate on biomedical topics with diverse audiences utilising contemporary and traditional formats employing integrity, inclusivity and culturally safe practices
PLO 6 Apply and demonstrate the concepts of reconciliation, cultural intelligence and cultural safety to practice, with consideration of the experience and perspectives of First Nations peoples and the global community in all aspects of work
BH102P24 - Bachelor of Pharmacy
PLO 3 Apply research principles and methodology to design and implement a research project to address complex real-world scientific challenges, and make original contribution to current disciplinary knowledge.
PLO 5 Communicate to diverse audiences utilising contemporary and traditional formats employing integrity, inclusivity and culturally safe practices to ensure patient-centred care
PLO 6 Demonstrate responsibility and accountability for own learning, professional behaviour, reflective practice, and professional development as part of a multidisciplinary team
BP032P24 - Bachelor of Nursing
BP032P24D2 - Bachelor of Nursing
PLO 5 Demonstrate responsibility and accountability for professional decisions through critical thinking and reflection to resolve challenges as part of a multidisciplinary and interprofessional team
PLO 6 Evaluate and critically reflect on the concepts of reconciliation and cultural intelligence considering the experience and perspectives of health and wellbeing for first nations people
PLO 7 Evaluate and critically reflect on the concepts of reconciliation and cultural intelligence considering the experience and perspectives of health and wellbeing for first nations people
BH129 - Bachelor of Laboratory Medicine (Honours)
PLO 1 Apply coherent and advanced of laboratory medicine theories, concepts and evidence in various real-world settings using a scientific approach.
PLO 7 Apply and demonstrate the cultural intelligence and cultural safety to practice, with consideration of the experience and perspectives of First Nations peoples and the global community in all aspects of work.
BH130 - Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Honours)
PLO 2 Apply evidence-based knowledge to conceptualise and undertake practice in biomedical science in a variety of contexts, independently and collaboratively, with emerging technological advancements.
PLO 7 Collaborate and contribute as an effective team member in diverse settings with commitment to First Nations and globally inclusive perspectives and participation.
AD023A - Associate Degree Aviation (Prof Pilots)
AD023BN - Associate Degree Aviation (Prof Pilots)
PLO 1.1 Demonstrate broad knowledge of underpinning theoretical aviation principles, and analyse information to complete a range of activities.
PLO 1.3 Ability to apply a depth of knowledge in a range of industry practice fundamentals in contexts that are subject to change, and adapt knowledge and skills in a range of contexts.
PLO 1.4 Demonstrate the application of skills and knowledge to adapt fundamental principles, concepts and techniques to known and unknown situations
PLO 2.1 Ability to undertake problem identification, formulation and solution to unpredictable and sometimes complex problems.
PLO 3.1 Ability to communicate effectively, not only within the aviation sector but with the community at large, and to transmit information and skills to others.
PLO 3.4 Understanding of social, cultural, global and environmental responsibilities associated with the aviation industry, and the principles of sustainability
PLO 3.5 Understanding of and commitment to professional and ethical responsibilities
PLO 3.6 Responsibility and accountability for own learning and work in collaboration with others within broad parameters.
BP083P23 - Bachelor of Applied Mathematics and Statistics
PLO 4 Critically evaluate and communicate technical and non- technical mathematical and statistical knowledge to diverse audiences utilising a variety of formats employing culturally safe practices.
PLO 5 Work ethically and independently, with integrity and accountability to develop professional agility for future careers.
BP293SBDD - Bachelor of Science (Biotechnology)/Bachelor of Biomedical Science
PLO 1.1 Demonstrate a coherent understanding of biotechnology and biomedical sciences by - Articulating the methods of biotechnology and biomedical science and explaining why current scientific knowledge is both contestable and testable by further inquiry
PLO 1.2 Demonstrate a coherent understanding of biotechnology and biomedical sciences by - Explaining the role and relevance of biotechnology and biomedical science in society
PLO 2.1 Exhibit depth and breadth of scientific knowledge by - Demonstrating knowledge across disciplines contributing to biotechnology and biomedical science
PLO 3.1 Critically analyse and solve scientific problems by - Gathering, synthesising and critically evaluating information from a range of sources
PLO 3.2 Critically analyse and solve scientific problems by - Designing and planning an investigation, including developing a testable hypothesis.
PLO 3.3 Critically analyse and solve scientific problems by - Selecting and applying practical and/or theoretical techniques or tools in order to conduct an investigation
PLO 4.1 Demonstrate effective communication of biotechnology and biomedical science by - Communicating scientific results, information, or arguments, to a range of audiences, for a range of purposes, and using a variety of modes.
PLO 5.1 Demonstrate accountability for your own learning and scientific work by - Becoming an independent and self-directed learner
PLO 5.2 Demonstrate accountability for your own learning and scientific work by - Working effectively, responsibly and safely in an individual or team context
PLO 5.3 Demonstrate accountability for your own learning and scientific work by - Demonstrating knowledge of the regulatory frameworks relevant to their biotechnology and biomedical science and personally practising ethical conduct.
BP229APCH - Bachelor of Science (Applied Chemistry)
PLO 1.2 Understanding the Culture of Chemistry - You will be able to recognise that chemistry plays an essential role in society and underpins many industrial, technological and medical advances.
PLO 2.2 Scientific knowledge - You have also demonstrated depth of chemistry knowledge by recognising chemistry is abroad discipline that impacts on, and is influenced by, other scientific fields.
PLO 3.2 Inquiry, Problem Solving and Critical Thinking - You will be able to formualte hypotheses, proposals and predictions and design and undertake4 experiments and projects in a safe and responsible manner
PLO 4.1 Communication - You will be able to communicate chemical knowledge by presenting information, articualte arguments and conclusions, in a variety of modes, to diverse audiences, and for a range of purposes
PLO 5.1 Personal and professional responsibility - You will be able to take personal, professional and social responsibility by demonstrating a capacity for self-directed learning will demonstrate accountability for your own learning and professional conduct.
PLO 5.2 Personal and professional responsibility - You will be able to take personal, professional and social responsibility by demonstrating a capacity for working responsibly and safely
PLO 5.3 Personal and professional responsibility - You will be able to recognise the relevant and required ethical conduct and behavior within which chemistry is practiced.
BP229BISC - Bachelor of Science (Applied Sciences)
PLO 1.2 Understanding science - You will demonstrate a coherent understanding of biological sciences by explaining the role and relevance of biological sciences in society.
PLO 1.3 Understanding science - You will demonstrate an understanding of the role and importance of evidence in the continuous evolution of scientific knowledge
PLO 2.2 Scientific knowledge - You will exhibit depth and breadth of biological knowledge by demonstrating knowledge that biological sciences have interdisciplinary connections with other sciences.
PLO 4.1 Communication - You will be an effective communicator of biological sciences by effectively communicating scientific results, information, or arguments using a range of modes (oral, written, visual) for a variety of purposes and audiences.
PLO 5.1 Personal and professional responsibility - You will be accountable for individual learning and scientific work in environmental science by being an independent and self-directed learner.
PLO 5.2 Personal and professional responsibility - You will be accountable for individual learning and scientific work by working effectively, responsibly, ethically, and safely in an individual or team context.
BP229P7 - Bachelor of Science (Applied Sciences)
BP229PHYS - Bachelor of Science (Physics)
BP305ASDD - Bachelor of Science (Applied Science)/Bachelor of Business (Management)
PLO 1.2 Understanding science - You will demonstrate an understanding of the role and relevance of science in society
PLO 1.3 Understanding science - You will demonstrate an understanding of the role and importance of evidence in the continuous evolution of scientific knowledge
PLO 2.2 Scientific knowledge - You will have knowledge in at least one discipline other than your primary discipline and some understanding of interdisciplinary linkages
PLO 3.2 Inquiry and Problem Solving - You will be able to gather, critically review and synthesise information relevant to a scientific inquiry or research project.
PLO 3.4 Inquiry and Problem Solving - You will demonstrate well developed problem solving skills, applying your knowledge and using your ability to think analytically and creatively
PLO 4.1 Communication - You will be able to communicate the solution to a problem or the results of a scientific investigation using effective oral, written and presentation skills.
PLO 5.1 Personal and professional responsibility - You will develop a capacity for independent and self-directed work.
PLO 5.2 Personal and professional responsibility - You will work responsibly, safely, legally and ethically.
PLO 5.3 Personal and professional responsibility - You will develop an ability to work collaboratively.
BP162O - Bachelor of Information Technology (RMITO)
PLO 1 Knowledge - Apply a broad and coherent set of knowledge and skills for developing user-centric information technology solutions for contemporary societal challenges.
PLO 2 Problem Solving - Apply systematic problem solving and decision-making methodologies to identify, design and implement information technology solutions to real world problems, demonstrating the ability to work independently to self-manage processes and projects.
PLO 4 Communication - Communicate effectively with diverse audiences, employing a range of communication methods in interactions to both computing and non-computing personnel.
PLO 6 Responsibility and Accountability - Demonstrate integrity, ethical conduct, sustainable and culturally inclusive professional standards, including First Nations knowledges and input in designing and implementing information technology solutions.
For more information on the program learning outcomes for your program, please see the program guide.
Upon successful completion of this course, you will be able to:
- Identify and explain key concepts, processes and frameworks within Sustainable Development.
- Discuss, illustrate and assess how sustainable development in STEM and/or Health can drive better outcomes for a sustainable future.
- Propose and communicate solutions to industry-based or real-world interdisciplinary sustainability challenges using key concepts, processes and frameworks for sustainable development in the context of STEM and/or health.
- Demonstrate consideration of the principles of diversity, equity, inclusion and reconciliation as key drivers within sustainable development.
Overview of Learning Activities
You will utilise a suite of online learning resources and participate in online learning experiences to develop understanding and experience of sustainable development within contemporary settings.
You are encouraged to be proactive and self-directed in your learning, asking questions of your lecturer and/or peers and seeking out information as required, especially from the numerous sources available through the RMIT library, and through links and material specific to this course that is available through myRMIT Studies Course.
Overview of Learning Resources
RMIT will provide you with resources and tools for learning in this course through myRMIT Studies Course.
Weekly learning resources are set up and available in Canvas.
A list of recommended learning resources will be provided by your lecturer, which may include books, journal articles and web resources. You will also be expected to seek further resources relevant to the focus of your own learning.
There are services available to support your learning through the University Library. The Library provides guides on academic referencing and subject specialist help as well as a range of study support services. For further information, please visit the Library page on the RMIT University website and the myRMIT student portal.
Overview of Assessment
Assessment Tasks
Assessment Task 1: Reflective Assessment (written)
Weighting 30%
This assessment task supports CLOs 1, 2 & 4
Assessment Task 2: Communication Assessment (written)
Weighting 35%
This assessment task supports CLOs 1, 2 & 4
Assessment Task 3: Group Project (recorded presentation)
Weighting 35%
This assessment task supports CLOs 2, 3 & 4
If you have a long-term medical condition and/or disability it may be possible to negotiate to vary aspects of the learning or assessment methods. You can contact the program coordinator or Equitable Learning Services if you would like to find out more.