Outline

Overview

We live in a world surrounded by, and dependent on, animals. Australia has one of the highest rates of animal ownership in the world but also the highest rate of wild mammalian extinctions. In this unit you will explore the relationships and interconnections between humans and companion, domestic and wild animals. You will investigate the domestication of animals, positive and negative impacts of animals on human health and vice versa, behaviour and conditioning, how cultural perspectives influence our use of animals, impacts on wildlife and the actions available to help conservation efforts along with the ethical and legislative underpinning of this. Experiential activities and real-world scenarios are designed to consolidate theoretical learning as you develop skills in scientific method, critical thinking, communication, and information/digital literacy. Animals and Us is co-taught by Taronga Conservation Society Australia with some classes at Taronga Zoo, utilising the zoo as a living classroom. Students make their own travel arrangements for classes at the Zoo. This unit is for students who are interested in a professional career working with animals, such as those in BVB/DVM, AVBS or Wildlife Conservation, or those who generally seek an understanding of how humans and animals are inextricably linked.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit	Life and Environmental Sciences Academic Operations
Credit points	6
Prerequisites ?	None
Corequisites ?	None
Prohibitions ?	WILD1001
Assumed knowledge ?	None
Available to study abroad and exchange students	Yes

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Emma Thompson, e.thompson@sydney.edu.au

Assessment

The census date for this unit availability is 31 March 2026

Details
Criteria

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length	Use of AI
Written exam	Final Exam*** Multiple choice and short answer questions from all unit content. This is a hurdle exam and you must attain 40% in this exam to pass the unit. Failure to do so will mean you automatically fail the unit.	40%	Formal exam period	2 hours	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Out-of-class quiz	Early Feedback Task Online canvas quiz #earlyfeedbacktask	5%	Week 03 Due date: 12 Mar 2026 at 23:59	10 MCQ questions #earlyfeedbacktask	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
In-person written or creative task	Scenario based written assessment You will be provided with a scenario to critically assess during allocated prac time.	15%	Week 05 Due date: 25 Mar 2026 at 00:00	1 hour duration 1-2 pages handwritten	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Written work	Scientific Poster Poster presentation comparing two species (from a selection given) across several perspectives.	20%	Week 11 Due date: 14 May 2026 at 23:59	1 page scientific poster	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Debate	Debate Presentation Oral debate on topic provided	20%	Week 13 Due date: 27 May 2026 at 00:00	4 min oral debate 2 min rebuttal	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
= hurdle task ? = group assignment ? = early feedback task ?

Early feedback task

This unit includes an early feedback task, designed to give you feedback prior to the census date for this unit. Details are provided in the Canvas site and your result will be recorded in your Marks page. It is important that you actively engage with this task so that the University can support you to be successful in this unit.

Assessment summary

Full details for all assessments can be found on Canvas under the 'Assessments' tab.

**All group members must participate in the group Debate work assessment, and must be present on the day of the Debate.

***Final exam: This assessment is a hurdle task. Failure to gain a score of 40% will result in an automatic failure of the unit. If a second replacement exam is required, this exam may be delivered via an alternative assessment method, such as a viva voce (oral exam). Any alternative assessment will meet the same learning outcomes as the original exam. The format of the alternative assessment will be determined by the unit coordinator.

Assessment criteria

The University awards common result grades, set out in the Coursework Policy 2014 (Schedule 1).

As a general guide, a high distinction indicates work of an exceptional standard, a distinction a very high standard, a credit a good standard, and a pass an acceptable standard.

Result name	Mark range	Description
High distinction	85 - 100	Able to write a coherent and flowing report in good English. Using a variety of viewpoints to argue the process for identifying the problem. Excellent discussion of management strategies to manage this problem. References are used wisely and the student shows an ability to critique the literature. Sources included at least three refereed journal articles and these were presented in the correct format in the reference list and using the correct in text citation.
Distinction	75 - 84	Able to write a coherent report in good English. Presented at least two points of view to argue the process for identifying the problem. Good discussion of management strategies to manage this problem. Sources included at least three refereed journal articles and these were presented in the correct format in the reference list and using the correct in text citation.
Credit	65 - 74	Presented a report in good English. Presented at least two points of view to argue the process for identifying the problem. Reasonable discussion of management strategies to manage this problem. Sources included at least two refereed journal articles and these were presented in the correct format in the reference list and using the correct in text citation.
Pass	50 - 64	Presented and report in good English that defined the problem and came to a recommendation. Sources included two refereed journal articles, in a reference list.
Fail	0 - 49	When you don’t meet the learning outcomes of the unit to a satisfactory standard. Presented a report that did not address the problem or was poorly constructed and grammatically incorrect. Did not provide any recommendations. Did not use any refereed journal papers.

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

This unit has an exception to the standard University policy or supplementary information has been provided by the unit coordinator. This information is displayed below:

Without an approved special consideration late penalties apply at 5% per day to max 10 days when a score of zero will be recorded.

Academic integrity

The University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed the Academic Honesty Education Module (AHEM) which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Learning support

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy reflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

Weekly schedule

WK	Topic	Learning activity
Week 01	Introduction to Unit of Study; and Evolution of domestication	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 01	Getting to know peers and tutors. Intro to scientific method to be used further in semester.	Practical (3 hr)
Week 02	Relationship between human and animal health: Zoonoses and One Health; and The Role of Zoos	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 02	Evolution of Zoos	Practical (3 hr)
Week 03	Relationship between human and animal health: Physiological and Psychological	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 03	Scientific method: designing an experiment Zoonosis	Practical (3 hr)
Week 04	Relationship between human and animal health: Environment	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 04	Scientific method practice in the field at Taronga	Practical (3 hr)
Week 05	Behaviour and culture: culture and resources Behaviour and culture: behaviour and ethology	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 05	Ethology in practice	Practical (3 hr)
Week 06	Behaviour and culture: livestock; and Behaviour and culture: ethogram and wildlife	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 06	Seal show, immersive classrooms and ethograms in practice	Practical (3 hr)
Week 07	Behaviour and culture: animals in work, research and sport; and Behaviour and culture: animals and education and entertainment	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 07	Training demonstration extraordinaire!	Practical (3 hr)
Week 08	Conservation: Biodiversity, and Conservation: Threats	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 08	Poster assessment work: viewing species, sourcing suitable literature, assessment criteria	Practical (3 hr)
Week 09	Conservation: Actions; and Conservation: technology	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 09	Penguin Prac	Practical (3 hr)
Week 10	Conservation: Human/wildlife conflict; and Assessments: poster and debate	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 10	Group debate work: topic, sourcing information, for and against fact finding, mock debate	Practical (3 hr)
Week 11	Ethics and Welfare: Ethics; and Ethics and Welfare: welfare and dignity and respect	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 11	Marius prac	Practical (3 hr)
Week 12	Ethics and Welfare: Behaviour and Enrichment; and Ethics and Welfare: Legislation	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 12	Captive enclosure design	Practical (3 hr)
Week 13	Review lecture	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 13	Assessment: Group Debate	Practical (3 hr)

Attendance and class requirements

Attendance at practicals is compulsory and you are expected to attend 80% of your classes to pass the unit. Failure to attend 80% of your prac classes will result in automatically failing the unit. Whilst lectures are recorded by the university, practical and tutorial sessions are not. There is no alternative on-line material provided for this unit.

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 6 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 120-150 hours of student effort in total.

Required readings

Any readings that we require you to do will be provided during class time or on Canvas.

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

Outcomes
Graduate qualities

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

LO1. Describe and give examples of how human and animal health are related
LO2. Describe and give examples of how human-animal interactions are culturally influenced
LO3. Analyse and evaluate research in the field of animal research
LO4. Make informed decisions based on evidence to ensure the welfare and management of animals
LO5. Describe the legislation and principles for the care and use of animals
LO6. Independently analyse data and articulate the meaning in the results
LO7. Communicate confidently both orally and in writing
LO8. Work in a team with people from diverse backgrounds with inclusiveness, open mindedness, honesty and diligence

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1	Depth of disciplinary expertise Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.
GQ2	Critical thinking and problem solving Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.
GQ3	Oral and written communication Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.
GQ4	Information and digital literacy Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.
GQ5	Inventiveness Generating novel ideas and solutions.
GQ6	Cultural competence Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.
GQ7	Interdisciplinary effectiveness Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.
GQ8	Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.
GQ9	Influence Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes	Graduate qualities
Learning outcomes

Responding to student feedback

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

Changes to Animals and Us have been made based on student feedback and suggestions. Assessment changes have been made to comply with USYD's AI secure and insecure assessment requirements.

Additional information

Additional costs

Several practicals in this unit are held at Taronga zoo and you will be expected to make your own way there at your own cost.

Work, health and safety

Risk assessments have been conducted for each practical session to ensure the safety of students and staff. Teaching staff will relay information for each session.

Practicals will be held at USYD and at Taronga zoo (both inside and outside at both locations). Unless there is a lightning storm pracs will go ahead. Please check weather conditions prior to pracs and wear appropriate clothing and footwear.

For pracs at Taronga zoo it is important to wear shoes suitable for walking due to the gradient of the site.

Disclaimer

Important: the University of Sydney regularly reviews units of study and reserves the right to change the units of study available annually. To stay up to date on available study options, including unit of study details and availability, refer to the relevant handbook.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.

Current students

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Early feedback task

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Additional costs

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links

AVBS1003: Animals and Us

Semester 1, 2026 [Normal day] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Early feedback task

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Additional costs

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links