Unit outline_

GEOS1003: Earth Science: Past and Future of Our Planet

Semester 2, 2025 [Normal day] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

Geosciences is the most interdisciplinary of all STEM disciplines. The study of Earth will allow you to build a wide range of transferable skills that can be used to address global challenges and are highly valued by employers. To predict the future of our planet and plan a sustainable future for our societies, we need to understand Earth's past. Geoscientists examine the rock record to understand the biological, chemical, physical, and mechanical processes that control the evolution of the Earth's lithosphere, i.e., the Earth's outer shell where the biosphere inhabits. In GEOS1003, you will explore how the Earth System works and evolves. You will learn how life evolves with time, continents form and disappear, mountains emerge, river systems shape Earth's surface, Earth resources form, and tectonic forces control the geology of our planet. You will develop knowledge on the processes that lead to natural hazards (e.g., volcanoes, earthquakes) and how you can use geosciences to build resilient societies. The unit includes a combination of lectures, hands-on laboratories with emphasis on problem-solving, and fieldwork to examine geological objects and processes in their natural setting.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit Geosciences Academic Operations
Credit points 6
Prerequisites
? 
None
Corequisites
? 
None
Prohibitions
? 
GEOS1903 or GEOL1002 or GEOL1902 or GEOL1501
Assumed knowledge
? 

None

Available to study abroad and exchange students

Yes

Teaching staff

Coordinator Vasileios Chatzaras, vasileios.chatzaras@sydney.edu.au
Demonstrator(s) Puqing Li, puqing.li@sydney.edu.au
Eric Wang, eric.wang1@sydney.edu.au
Rafael Pinto Cherene Viana, rafael.cherene@sydney.edu.au
ELNAZ HEIDARI, elnaz.heidari@sydney.edu.au
Addison Tu, addison.tu@sydney.edu.au
Lecturer(s) Dietmar Muller, dietmar.muller@sydney.edu.au
Vasileios Chatzaras, vasileios.chatzaras@sydney.edu.au
Maria Seton, maria.seton@sydney.edu.au
The census date for this unit availability is 1 September 2025
Type Description Weight Due Length Use of AI
Written exam
? 
Final Exam
Short Answer Questions, Geological Problem, Geological Map; By-Hand
35% Formal exam period 3 hours AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7
Contribution Lecture Attendance
Attendance at class
0% Ongoing Weekly lectures over 12 weeks AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7
Contribution Practical Exercises
Active intellectual participation
0% Ongoing 11 practicals of 150 minutes each AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO5 LO3 LO4 LO6 LO7
Out-of-class quiz Pre-Practical Quiz 1
A short multiple-choice quiz
0.5% Week 01
Due date: 06 Aug 2025 at 23:59

Closing date: 06 Aug 2025
Unlimited time and attempts AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO3
Out-of-class quiz Pre-Practical Quiz 2
A short multiple-choice quiz
0.5% Week 02
Due date: 13 Aug 2025 at 23:59

Closing date: 13 Aug 2025
Unlimited time and attempts AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO3
Out-of-class quiz Early Feedback Task Summative Quiz 1 MCQs Early Feedback Quiz
Weeks 1-3 lecture and practical material Canvas-based MCQ #EarlyFeedbacktask
3.5% Week 03
Due date: 24 Aug 2025 at 23:59

Closing date: 24 Aug 2025
30 minutes - 10 MCQs AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6
Out-of-class quiz Pre-Practical Quiz 3
A short multiple-choice quiz
0.5% Week 03
Due date: 20 Aug 2025 at 23:59

Closing date: 20 Aug 2025
Unlimited time and attempts AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO3 LO4 LO5
Out-of-class quiz Pre-Practical Quiz 4
A short multiple-choice quiz
0.5% Week 04
Due date: 27 Aug 2025 at 23:59

Closing date: 27 Aug 2025
Unlimited time and attempts AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO3 LO4 LO5
Practical skill Practical Assignment 1
Completion of hands-on exercises during practical session
4% Week 04
Due date: 25 Aug 2025 at 23:59

Closing date: 25 Aug 2025
Two and a half hours AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7
Out-of-class quiz Pre-Practical Quiz 5
A short multiple-choice quiz
0.5% Week 05
Due date: 03 Sep 2025 at 23:59

Closing date: 03 Sep 2025
Unlimited time and attempts AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO3 LO4 LO5
Out-of-class quiz Pre-Practical Quiz 6
A short multiple-choice quiz
0.5% Week 06
Due date: 10 Sep 2025 at 23:59

Closing date: 10 Sep 2025
Unlimited time and attempts AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO3 LO4 LO5
Practical skill Practical Assignment 2
Completion of hands-on exercises during practical session
4% Week 06
Due date: 08 Sep 2025 at 23:59

Closing date: 08 Sep 2025
Two and a half hours AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7
Out-of-class quiz Summative Quiz 2
Weeks 4-6 lecture and practical material
3.5% Week 07
Due date: 15 Sep 2025 at 23:59

Closing date: 15 Sep 2025
30 minutes - 10 MCQs AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO4 LO5 LO6 LO3
Out-of-class quiz Pre-Practical Quiz 7
A short multiple-choice quiz
0.5% Week 07
Due date: 17 Sep 2025 at 23:59

Closing date: 17 Sep 2025
Unlimited time and attempts AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO3 LO4 LO5
Out-of-class quiz Pre-Practical Quiz 8
A short multiple-choice quiz
0.5% Week 08
Due date: 24 Sep 2025 at 23:59

Closing date: 24 Sep 2025
Unlimited time and attempts AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO3 LO4 LO5
Practical skill Practical Assignment 3
Completion of hands-on exercises during practical session
4% Week 08
Due date: 22 Sep 2025 at 23:59

Closing date: 22 Sep 2025
Two and a half hours AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7
Out-of-class quiz Pre-Practical Quiz 9
A short multiple-choice quiz
0.5% Week 09
Due date: 08 Oct 2025 at 23:59

Closing date: 08 Oct 2025
Unlimited time and attempts AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO3 LO4 LO5
Out-of-class quiz Summative Quiz 3
Weeks 7-9 lecture and practical material
3.5% Week 10
Due date: 13 Oct 2025 at 23:59

Closing date: 13 Oct 2025
30 minutes - 10 MCQs AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6
Out-of-class quiz Pre-Practical Quiz 10
A short multiple-choice quiz
0.5% Week 10
Due date: 15 Oct 2025 at 23:59

Closing date: 15 Oct 2025
Unlimited time and attempts AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO2 LO3 LO4
Practical skill Practical Assignment 4
Completion of hands-on exercises during practical session
4% Week 11
Due date: 20 Oct 2025 at 23:59

Closing date: 20 Oct 2025
Two and a half hours AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7
Practical skill Fieldtrip Assignment
Make detailed observations and answer guided questions during the Illawarra Coast field trip
10% Week 12
Due date: 02 Nov 2025 at 23:59

Closing date: 02 Nov 2025
Eight hours AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7
Practical test
? 
Rock Identification Test
Identification and description of a set of unknown geological samples; By Hand
20% Week 13 1.5 hours AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO6 LO7
Out-of-class quiz Summative Quiz 4
Weeks 10-12 lecture and practical material
3.5% Week 13
Due date: 03 Nov 2025 at 23:59

Closing date: 03 Nov 2025
30 minutes - 10 MCQs AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6
early feedback task = 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

Pre-Practical Quizzes – 5% (Weekly)

  • Students are required to complete online multiple-choice quizzes before attending practical classes.  Each quiz is based on the corresponding week’s practical exercise as outlined in the Practical Manual.
  • Unlimited attempts are allowed for each quiz. A score of 100% is required to receive credit. Any score below 100% will not contribute to your final mark.
  • Each of the 10 quizzes contributes 0.5%, totalling 5% of your final mark for the unit (10 x 0.5%).

Practical Attendance and Participation

  • Attendance at all practical classes is compulsory and is recorded using the SRES system.
  • Worksheets should be completed during class and checked by your demonstrators.
  • Feedback will be provided during the practical session as appropriate.

Practical Assignments – 16% (Weeks 3, 5, 7, 10)

  • Four practical assignments, each linked to a specific practical session, must be completed during practical class time.
  • Each assignment contributes 4% to your final mark (4 x 4% = 16%).
  • Assignments consist of structured activities and questions related to the practical content.

Summative Quizzes – 14% (Weeks 3, 6, 9, 12)

  • Four online quizzes will be delivered via Canvas to assess your understanding of lecture and practical material. Each quiz will consist of approximately ten multiple-choice or short-answer questions. Questions may include rock identification and geological map interpretation.
  • Each quiz contributes 3.5%, totalling 14% of your final mark (4 x 3.5%).

Field Trip – 10% (Week 11)

  • This assessment includes both an in-person field exercise and a self-directed remote alternative. You will be required to make geological observations and interpretations focused on the geology of the Sydney Basin.
  • This task contributes 10% to your final mark.

Rock Identification Test – 20% (Week 13)

  • Students must complete a Rock Identification Test during the practical class.  You will be asked to identify and describe a selection of unknown geological samples (rocks and minerals).
  • This test accounts for 20% of your final mark.

Final Examination – 35%

  • The final examination is a three-hour written exam consisting of short-answer questions, a geological map interpretation problem.
  • The exam is comprehensive, covering content from lectures and practical sessions. All material covered in the unit is examinable.
  • The final exam contributes 35% of your total mark.

Online Evaluation Quizzes (Non-Assessed)

  • Optional online quizzes will be available via Canvas to help you review and understand course content.
  • These quizzes do not contribute to your final grade. However, attempting them is highly recommended as they offer valuable feedback on your progress.

For more detailed information on each assessment task, please refer to the Unit’s Canvas site.

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

Work awarded a distinction grade will usually achieve the following minimum standards or present the described characteristics

  • Accurately answers the question in an impressive, compelling, or highly persuasive manner
  • Presents relevant material accurately in a thoroughly convincing or forceful manner or with the facts well‐integrated into an extended and comprehensive explanation or argument
  • Accurate quotation and/or source identification when appropriate.
  • Evidence of exhaustive independent research
  • Evidence of extensive critical analysis of concept, and/or innovative perspective on the topic, and/or deep understanding of problem
  • Answers demonstrate striking originality, an innovative approach, or impressive analytical skill
  • Answers are exceptionally well written, with excellent structure expression
  • Is otherwise exceptional in some way

Distinction

75 - 84

Work awarded a distinction grade will usually achieve the following minimum standards or present the described characteristics

  • Accurately answers the question in a convincing, confident manner
  • Presents relevant material accurately in a concise manner or with the facts well‐integrated into a comprehensive explanation or argument
  • Accurate quotation and/or source identification when appropriate.
  • Evidence of extensive independent research
  • Evidence of extensive critical analysis of concept, and/or innovative perspective on the topic, and/or deep understanding of problem
  • Answers are well written, with clear structure and cogent expression

Credit

65 - 74

Work awarded a credit grade will usually achieve the following minimum standards or present the described characteristics

  • An appropriate, accurate and reasonable detailed answer or response is provided
  • Appropriate key point or points (facts) and/or concepts clearly presented without significant errors or misconceptions
  • Presents relevant material concisely with facts clearly integrated into the explanation
  • Accurate quotation and/or source identification when appropriate.
  • Evidence of some independent research or critical analysis of concept or problem
  • Answers are easily understood with both clear expression and structure if appropriate

Pass

50 - 64

Work awarded a passing grade will usually achieve the following minimum standards or present the described characteristics

  • An appropriate but superficial answer or response is provided
  • Presents relevant material in a superficial manner or in a simplistic descriptive style
  • Correctly identifies key point or points (facts) but does not develop an appropriate explanation or argument if this is required
  • Contains some minor errors or presents minor inaccuracies and misconceptions
  • Little or no evidence of in‐depth analysis or deep understanding of the concept
  • Answers can be understood but may be poorly worded or somewhat flawed due to poor grammar, expression or structure

Fail

0 - 49

Work may fail for any or all of the following criteria

  • No answer or response is provided
  • Does not address or otherwise answer the question
  • Contains numerous minor errors or presents a significant misconception
  • Presents irrelevant material
  • No evidence of research or analysis
  • Presents a significantly inaccurate or flawed argument
  • The answer is incomprehensible or difficult to understand due to significant problems with grammar, expression or structure

.

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:

In accordance with University policy, the following penalties apply to written work submitted after 11:59 PM on the due date: A deduction of 5% of the maximum possible mark will be applied for each calendar day the work is late. After 10 calendar days, a mark of zero will be awarded. This unit includes specific exceptions or supplementary rules, as outlined by the Unit Coordinator. No late submissions are permitted for the following assessments: Pre-Practical Quizzes, Summative Quizzes, Rock Identification Test, Final Examination. Late submissions for these tasks will automatically receive a mark of zero. For the Practical Assignments and Field Trip Assignment, the following applies: Written work submitted electronically after 11:59 PM on the due date is considered late. A penalty of 5% of the maximum possible mark per calendar day will be applied, up to a maximum of 10 days. The penalty is applied after the work is marked (i.e., the work is marked as usual, then the appropriate percentage is deducted). Work submitted more than 10 days late will receive a mark of zero. The marker may, but is not required to, provide feedback on work submitted more than 10 days late.

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.

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

WK Topic Learning activity Learning outcomes
Week 01 Importance of Earth Sciences & Mineral Evolution; Online Learning Material Independent study (2 hr) LO1 LO6
Importance of Earth Sciences & Mineral Evolution Lecture and tutorial (1.5 hr) LO1 LO6
Common Minerals Practical (2.5 hr) LO1 LO3 LO7
Week 02 Plate Tectonics - The Rock Cycle; Online Learning Material Independent study (2 hr) LO3 LO4 LO5
Plate Tectonics - The Rock Cycle Lecture and tutorial (1.5 hr) LO3 LO4 LO5
Igneous Rock Textures Practical (2.5 hr) LO1 LO3 LO6 LO7
Week 03 Igneous Rocks and Processes; Online Learning Material Independent study (2 hr) LO1 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6
Igneous Rocks and Processes Lecture and tutorial (1.5 hr) LO1 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7
Igneous Rocks: Naming and Classification Practical (2.5 hr) LO1 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7
Week 04 Sedimentary Rocks and Processes; Online Learning Material Independent study (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6
Sedimentary Rocks and Processes Lecture and tutorial (1.5 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6 LO7
Clastic Sedimentary Rocks Practical (2.5 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6 LO7
Week 05 Life Through the Ages; Online Learning Material Independent study (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6
Life Through the Ages Lecture and tutorial (1.5 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6 LO7
Carbonate Sedimentary Rocks Practical (2.5 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6 LO7
Week 06 Metamorphic Rocks and Processes; Online Learning Material Independent study (2 hr) LO1 LO3 LO4 LO6
Metamorphic Rocks and Processes Lecture and tutorial (1.5 hr) LO1 LO3 LO4 LO6 LO7
Metamorphic Rocks - Reactions and Textures Practical (2.5 hr) LO1 LO3 LO4 LO6 LO7
Week 07 Geological Structures; Online Learning Material Independent study (2 hr) LO1 LO3 LO6
Geological Structures Lecture and tutorial (1.5 hr) LO1 LO3 LO6 LO7
Metamorphic Rocks - Naming and Classification Practical (2.5 hr) LO1 LO3 LO6 LO7
Week 08 Geological Maps; Online Learning Material Independent study (2 hr) LO1 LO3 LO4 LO6
Geological Maps Lecture and tutorial (1.5 hr) LO1 LO3 LO4 LO6 LO7
Rocks on Geological Maps and Cross Sections Practical (2.5 hr) LO1 LO3 LO4 LO6 LO7
Week 09 Plate Tectonics and Natural Hazards; Online Learning Material Independent study (2 hr) LO1 LO5 LO6
Plate Tectonics and Natural Hazards Lecture and tutorial (1.5 hr) LO1 LO5 LO6 LO7
Rocks and Structures on Geological Maps and Cross Sections Practical (2.5 hr) LO1 LO5 LO6 LO7
Week 10 Geological Histories and Past Environments; Online Learning Material Independent study (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6 LO7
Geological Histories and Past Environments Lecture and tutorial (1.5 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO6
Fossils and Plate Tectonics Practical (2.5 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO6 LO7
Week 11 Geology of the Sydney Basin Field trip (8 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6 LO7
Geology of the Sydney Basin Independent study (8 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6 LO7
Week 12 Geology of Australia and the Sydney Area; Online Learning Material Independent study (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6
Geology of Australia and the Sydney Area Lecture and tutorial (1.5 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6 LO7
Rock Identification Quiz Preparation Practical (2.5 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO6 LO7
Week 13 Review, Revision and Exam Preparation Lecture and tutorial (1.5 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6
Rock Identification Test Practical (1.5 hr) LO3 LO4 LO6 LO7

Attendance and class requirements

Online Learning Material

It is strongly recommended that students study the online and pre-recorded learning material on their own time (approximately 1-2 hours per week).  Core material for each week will be recorded and made available through Canvas.

Lectorials

It is strongly recommended that students attend the weekly lectorials.  The aim of the lectorias is to: (1) reinforce and consolidate knowledge acquired by the study of the online learning material, and (2) discuss student questions for the weekly online learning material.

Practicals

Students have to study the practical manual and complete the pre-practical quiz every week (approximately 1 hour per week in addition to the time allocated for the study of the online learning material).  Practical classes complement the lectures, and attendance is compulsory.  During most weeks of the semester there is a practical class of two and a half-hours duration.  If you cannot attend a practical you should contact your tutor/demonstrator. 

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

Readings for this unit are online, publicly available resources that can be accessed via links provided on Canvas.

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.

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

  • LO1. Understand how geosciences can provide sustainable solutions to global challenges.
  • LO2. Develop appreciation of the significance of fossils and the longevity of the geologic record of biotic activity on the Earth.
  • LO3. Use the rock record to unravel geological history and understand the processes that have formed the Earth and currently modify the Earth’s physical features.
  • LO4. Understand the relationships between the different rocks systems (e.g., sedimentary, igneous, metamorphic).
  • LO5. Understand the relationship between plate tectonic processes and the occurrence of natural Earth hazards such as volcanic eruptions, earthquakes and tsunami.
  • LO6. Analyse and synthesise geological information to tackle a wide range of Earth Science issues.
  • LO7. Demonstrate written, oral and interpersonal communication skills.

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
GQ1 GQ2 GQ3 GQ4 GQ5 GQ6 GQ7 GQ8 GQ9

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

Considering the student feedback and the lecturers' observations from 2024, we made the following changes: 1) Clearly separate required from recommended unit content.

Work, health and safety

We are governed by the Work Health and Safety Act 2011, Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 and Codes of Practice. Penalties for non-compliance have increased. Everyone has a responsibility for health and safety at work. The University’s Work Health and Safety policy explains the responsibilities and expectations of workers and others, and the procedures for managing WHS risks associated with University activities.

General Laboratory Safety Rules

  • No eating or drinking is allowed in any laboratory under any circumstances 
  • Closed-toe shoes are mandatory 
  • Follow safety instructions in your manual and posted in laboratories 
  • In case of fire, follow instructions posted outside the laboratory door 
  • First aid kits, eye wash and fire extinguishers are located in or immediately outside each laboratory 

As a precautionary measure, it is recommended that you have a current tetanus immunisation. This can be obtained from University Health Service: unihealth.usyd.edu.au/

Disclaimer

The University reserves the right to amend units of study or no longer offer certain units, including where there are low enrolment numbers.

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