Course Title: Conduct field research into natural and cultural resources

Part B: Course Detail

Teaching Period: Term1 2015

Course Code: ENVI5076C

Course Title: Conduct field research into natural and cultural resources

School: 155T Vocational Health and Sciences

Campus: City Campus

Program: C5305 - Diploma of Conservation and Land Management

Course Contact: Namrita Kaul

Course Contact Phone: +61 3 9925 4309

Course Contact Email: namrita.kaul@rmit.edu.au


Name and Contact Details of All Other Relevant Staff

The teacher for this Course is Bruce Partland

Contact details:

Phone: 99258323

e-mail: bruce.partland@rmit.edu.au

Nominal Hours: 200

Regardless of the mode of delivery, represent a guide to the relative teaching time and student effort required to successfully achieve a particular competency/module. This may include not only scheduled classes or workplace visits but also the amount of effort required to undertake, evaluate and complete all assessment requirements, including any non-classroom activities.

Pre-requisites and Co-requisites

There are none

Course Description

This unit covers the process of conducting field research into natural resource and cultural areas for resource management and related purposes and defines the standard required to: use a range of electronic and manual recording systems to support research; identify stakeholders including current tenure, Indigenous history and community interest; review existing knowledge; develop research objectives, staff, resources and design; conduct field investigations to investigate impacts on fauna, flora and natural resources of the site; report on the field investigation.


National Codes, Titles, Elements and Performance Criteria

National Element Code & Title:

AHCILM501A Conduct field research into natural and cultural resources

Element:

1. Review existing knowledge

Performance Criteria:

1.1. Existing information gathered through investigation and enterprise recording processes is examined to determine key features.
1.2. Oral evidence, where it exists, is reviewed.
1.3. Sites are inspected to assess condition and availability of further information.
1.4. Information, records and places previously destroyed or damaged or under threat are identified as factors to be incorporated in the assessment process, strategies and plans.
1.5. Scope of information is assessed for adequacy against the requirements of legislation, Codes of Practice and protocols.
1.6. Appropriate database, geographic information system and other electronic and manual recording systems are identified for data collection according to enterprise procedures.
1.7. Sources of expertise in research environments, identification of pollution, degradation and disturbance, and national and international issues and agreements are identified and accessed within and external to the enterprise.
1.8. Areas of inadequate information are identified and recorded.
 

Element:

2.Identify stakeholders

Performance Criteria:

2.1. Stakeholders are identified in conjunction with local communities and groups, and government documentation and interviews.
2.2. The current and relevant past land tenure for the place/area is investigated and recorded.
2.3. Indigenous interests are determined through culturally appropriate approaches to regional and community organisations and individuals.
2.4. Proper protocols are applied and key consultations conducted in approaches to regional and community organisations and individuals.
2.5. Privacy requirements are complied within, according to the directions of stakeholders and according to legislative and enterprise requirements.
2.6. Process of identifying stakeholders may be completed under the direction of a relevant cultural reference group.
 

Element:

3. Develop research approach

Performance Criteria:

3.1. Objectives of the field research are determined in conjunction with those commissioning the research according to enterprise procedures.
3.2. Objectives are used to identify specific types of investigation, techniques to be used, and physical areas of investigation.
3.3. The types of investigation and techniques selected are assessed for hazards and risks in designated environment, including the special OHS requirements, access issues, and management of the research in a range of weather and area conditions.
3.4. Existing information and data records are reviewed to determine the starting point(s) for the fieldwork.
3.5. Research methodology is consistent with the research objectives and in accordance with established natural resource management practice.
3.6. Required resources are identified to establish and maintain the research program within the required time schedules and are appropriate to the environments that will be encountered.
3.7. Personnel are selected for their competency in research techniques and safe operation in the expected environmental/cultural conditions.
3.8. Stakeholders to be included in the consultation process are identified.
3.9. Costs of field research are estimated and submitted for approval according to enterprise procedures.
3.10. Sampling and recording processes are established for research information according to enterprise requirements, best practice and scientific standards.
 

Element:

4. Conduct field investigations

Performance Criteria:

4.1. Consultation and fieldwork undertaken to obtain information required to meet investigation objectives.
4.2. Previously determined methodology is adjusted in light of progressive results and stakeholder feedback.
4.3. Observations, records and monitoring are in accord with scientific practice and coordinated to meet research objectives.
4.4. Impacts from areas external to area under investigation are identified.
4.5. Equipment, techniques and people deployed to carry out investigations.
4.6. Each field operation is documented and approved according to legislative and enterprise requirements for work in the research environment.
4.7. Where required, appropriate equipment and skills are sourced for the capture, management and sampling of animal species.
4.8. Information is analysed for impact on previously held hypothesis and other resources.
 

Element:

5. Develop process for involving decision makers

Performance Criteria:

5.1. Information on stakeholders is used to determine interests held by organisations, groups and individuals, and cultural dimensions.
5.2. Issues to be addressed with interest groups are defined.
5.3. Consultation and decision-making process is developed to address the issues with individuals, groups and organisations in a culturally appropriate manner.
5.4. Appropriate time is provided for consultative processes within groups and between individuals to occur and to obtain feedback on issues.
5.5. Decision-making group, such cultural reference groups and other groups are formed where assistance is required to direct investigation, access information, to address issues and/or review the significance of place/area.
 

Element:

6. Report on the field investigation

Performance Criteria:

6.1. Stakeholders are consulted on draft findings.
6.2. The basis for the determination of outcomes is documented to legislative requirements, the organisation's policies and practices, and international and national processes.
6.3. The determination of significance is submitted to the organisation and its external review processes, as required by legislation and Codes of Practice.
 

Learning Outcomes



Details of Learning Activities

1. Classroom-based lectures (see Timetable)

2. Self-directed  research in computer labs, libraries (Koorie Heritage Trust, State and RMIT), usually during class time.

3. Short Field trips during class time

4. One 1 day field trip to Bundoora RMIT to assess Scarred Trees (see Timetable)

5. A compulsory 5 day field trip to conduct research. This will take place from Monday 4th May - Friday 8th May.

You should plan well in advance to attend this Field Trip. It will difficult to complete the requirements of this Course if you are unable to attend.


Teaching Schedule

Course: ENVI5076C: Conduct field research into natural & cultural resources

Week 1
9/2: Introduction
Overview: Aboriginal history with emphasis on Victoria
What are ‘natural’ and ‘cultural resources’? What is a “sacred site”?
Where are you from? (Aboriginal place names; Clan & Language groups; Cultural sites)
Guest Speaker Mick Edwards: "Where I’m from"
Self-guided research in Computer Room: "Where I’m from"
Introduction to Reading 1 

11/2
Discussion arising from Reading 1 (Sacred Geography)
Mini assessment 1 (Ungraded:CA/NYC)(Student presentations): "Where I’m from"

Week 2
16/2 Mini assessment 1 (Ungraded:CA/NYC)(Student presentations): "Where I’m from"
Intro to State Library and research topics

18/2 Review Existing Knowledge (1)
Cultural heritage; ICOMOS; Burra Charter; Indigenous Heritage; Statements of significance;
Online Quiz completed in class (Definitions ): Components of Cultural Heritage & it’s application
 

Week 3
23/2 Review existing knowledge / Sources of knowledge (2)
Visit to State Library (Readings, oral histories, old photos, Diaries, Reports, Historic artwork, manuscripts, settlement of Melbourne.etc.
Worksheet

25/2 Library research skills: RMIT Library seminar
Mini Assessment 2 (Online Quiz)(Graded): Cultural Resources: Cultural resources Toolbox: Stone Tools; Coastal and Freshwater middens, Historic places; Scar Trees etc
 

Week 4
2 /3 Melbourne Museum: Bunjilaka (Worksheet related to 1. Review existing knowledge)

4/3 Online Discussion
Protocols; Identifying stakeholders; Permissions; Hunting down resources / Accessing research material; Putting together a culturally appropriate tourist enterprize

Week 5
9/3 LABOUR DAY- no class

11/3 Conducting Field investigations: Preliminary research (Wurundjeri)
First Australians DVD
Readings: Presland; Scar tree manual; Scar Tree Brochure; Bundoora site map etc

Week 6
16/3  Wurundjeri: Cultural awareness F/Trip

18/3 Reflection on Cultural awareness day
Introduction to Scar tree resources; Identify Groups
 

Week 7
23/3 Mini Assessment 4: (Graded) Develop a research approach for the assessment of Scarred trees at Bundoora RMIT
Group assignment, with resources including 1. Identified Scar trees (map); 2. Scar tree brochure 3. Scar Tree Manual 4. Photos

25/3 Research approach presentations by Groups.

Week 8
31/3 Field Trip :Conducting Field Investigations (2)- Bundoora Site visit (10am-3pm):
Cultural site recognition, recording and conservation (Scarred Trees)
 
1 /4: Koorie Heritage Trust: Collections, Purpose, research facilities

 Week 9
13/4 Legislation: Native Title: The Eddie Mabo story and beyond..
The Aboriginal Heritage Act 2008 (AAV Guest speaker)
 
15/4 . Mini Assessment 5 (Graded) Student research exercise): RAP’s, Native Title, NT Rights and interests

Assessment 2: Research Project due: 17th April

Week 10
20/4 Research existing knowledge 1 (Gunditjmara)
Some History: Critchett; Pascoe; GA Robinson and others.

22/4Research existing knowledge 1. (Gunditjmara):
EVC’s; Interactive Biodiversity maps; Transient resources: Plants and animal resources
Human imposed patterns on the landscape; Housing; History; Vegetation patterns; Geology; Clan estates; Resource availability; etc
 

Week 11
27/4 Review existing Knowledge 2 (Gunditjmara)
Field Trip organization

29/4 Research existing Knowledge 2. (Gunditjmara):
Relationships between Geology and Flora / Fauna;
Final preparations for Heywood field trip


Week 12
4-8th May 5 Day Field trip to Gunditjmara Country via Western District cultural landscape.

Week 13 
11/5 Reflection on Field Trip: Online discussion

13/5 Review knowledge: SW Victoria- a cultural landscape?
Resources: availability, seasonality, sustainability.
Intro to Aboriginal use of Fire Readings

Week 14
18/5Fire behaviour in the Australian environment
Guest speaker (TBA)

20/5. Fire as a cultural tool
Mini Assessment 5 : (In class exercise)


Week 15
25/5 Seminar: An alternative perspective on history
Guest speakers (TBA)

27/5 Research existing knowledge:
Koorie Heritage Trust (Literature Review pertaining to Gunditjmara)

Week 16
1/6  Self-guided research: Working on Assignments
Presentations (Alternative assessment 3)

3/6 Presentations (Alternative assessment 3)

5/6 Assessment 3: Major Report Due


 

 


 


Learning Resources

Prescribed Texts

Dark Emu, Black Seeds: Agriculture or accident? by Bruce Pascoe

9781922142436

The people of Budj Bim: Engineers of aquaculture, builders of stone house settlements and warriors defending Country, by the Gunditjmara people with Gib Wettenhall

978-0-9757778

References

The following References provide a good background to the Course, and some aspects of Victorian Aboriginal history and land -use patterns. They will be introduced at appropriate times during the Semester.

Presland, Gary, First People: The Eastern Kulin of Melbourne, Port Phillip and Central Victoria, Melbourne: Museum Victoria, 2010

Eidelson, Meyer, The Melbourne Dreaming: A Guide to the Aboriginal Places of Melbourne, Canberrra, Aborignal Studies Press, 1997

Sherwood J, Critchett J and O’Toole, K. Settlement of the Western District, From pre-historic times to the present. (Proceedings of a public lecture series held in Warrnambool, 3rd October 1984)

O’Dea, Kerin. Traditional diet and food preferences of Australian Aboriginal hunter-gatherers. Phil.Trans. R.Soc. London (1991)

Gott, Beth. Fire as a management tool in South-eastern Australia. Conference Proceedings, Australian Bushfire Conference, Albury, July 1999.

Gott, Beth and Conran, J. Victorian Koorie Plants-Some plants used by Victorian Koories for food, fibre, medicines and implements.  Yangennanock Women's Group, Aboriginal Keeping Place, Hamilton, Vic 1991

Gunditjmara people with Gib Wettenhall. The people of Budj Bim:Engineers of aquaculture, builders of stone house settlements and warriors defending country. em Press, 2010.

Gammage, Bill. The Biggest Estate on Earth: How Aborigines made Australia. Allen & Unwin, 2011


Other Resources

’The First Australians’ DVD set will give you an excellent background to Aboriginal history and issues. Includes a good overview of Wurundjeri (Woiwurrung) and Coranderrk.

’The Making of 10 canoes’ (Rolf de Heer) provides a fascinating study in the necessary protocols to be followed when researching or otherwise working with Indigenous communities.

The ’Cultural Resource Management Toolbox’ available online at https://www.dlsweb.rmit.edu.au/toolbox/cultresman/default.htm


Overview of Assessment

Assessment for this course may include reports, individual and group project work, tests  and assignments


Assessment Tasks

ASSESSMENT SUMMARY:
Ungraded (Mini) Assessments (S/NYS) ):
1.   Where I’m from (Class presentations) due 11th & 16th Feb
2.  Cultural Resources (In-class Toolbox /online exercise) due 25 Feb
3.  Develop a Research plan (Writeup of in-class workshop) due 25 March
4.  Heritage & land Title legislation (In-class online quiz) due 22 April
5.  Fire as a management tool (In-class online quiz) due 27 May

NB. The majority of the above mini-assessments, although ungraded, must be completed to a satisfactory standard in order to be able to gain an overall pass for Assessment 1. Most of them will be completed during class time. You will be given precise instructions on how to complete these exercises and Quizzes.Taken together they contribute to the background knowledge required to successfully complete the requirements of this Course.

Graded Assessments:
Assessment 2: Research Project (Bundoora scarred trees) due 17th April- 40%
Assessment 3 (5th June):  Major Report based on Heywood Field Trip (60%)
NB Details of these Assessments will be given during the first class.


Assessment Matrix

Other Information

Assessment information

  • Extension of time for submission of assessable work- A student may apply for an extension of up to 7 days from the original due date. They must lodge the application form (available on the web http://mams.rmit.edu.au/seca86tti4g4z.pdf ) at least the day before the due date. The application is lodged with the School Admin Office on Level 6, Bdg 51. Students requiring longer extensions must apply for Special Consideration (form available on the Web). For missed assessments such as exams- you (& your doctor if you are sick) must fill out a special consideration form. This form must be lodged at the HUB or online with supporting evidence (eg medical certificate), prior to, or within, 48 hours of the scheduled time of examination.
  • Late work that is submitted without an application for an extension will not be corrected
  • If you miss an assessment task due to unavoidable circumstances, you need to follow the procedure of special consideration and apply within the allowed time frame.

Course Overview: Access Course Overview