PHIL6910

Technology and the Environment

Faculty of Education and Arts School of Humanities and Social Science

10 Units 6000 Level Course

Not available in 2013

Previously offered in 2012, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004

Develops an understanding of a systematic approach to policy making and an awareness of how non-technical dimensions, including ethical, spiritual, social, political and economic issues, can arise, and should be systematically treated, in technological and management decisions, particularly in relation to systemic bio-physical evaluation and the nature of norms as design constraints in socio-political contexts.

Objectives

The objectives of the course are:
(1) Impart to individual students mature and disciplined knowledge of the nature of values and norms, the nature of systems and systems design, and the systematic incorporation of relevant values and norms into systems design generally and environmental design in particular.
(2) Impart to students critical skills to deal with the issues involved and employ the knowledge and methods involved in their assessment of their own culture and societal life, and in thinking about their own personal lives.
(3) Develop high level written and oral skills in analysing and presenting environmental issues.
(4) Develop a capacity to appreciate the values and norms involved in how people approach ways of living and evaluating life situations.

Content

The course covers the nature of norms and their application, basic principles of dynamic systems and of the choice of systems models, analyses of systems normative dimensions (e.g. robustness criteria) and socio-political systems and their normative character and impacts, including in environmental design.

Transition

n/a

Industrial Experience

Assumed Knowledge

Qualification for entry to the Diploma or Master of Environmental Studies, or equivalent.

Modes of Delivery

Internal Mode

Teaching Methods

Lecture
Seminar

Assessment Items

Essays / Written Assignments	Group Project (6,000-10,000 words) 75%, provides the opportunity to develop an extended complex system analysis on technological system or policy design. Groups consist of 4-6 students getting together to produce a coherent account on one topic. This will demonstrate the application of both knowledge and skills, and provides experience in performing multi-tasking group work.
Presentations - Group	Group presentation 15%, 1 Hour assessment and feedback on developing knowledge of the subject area and on developing the capacity to critically analyse and argue issues in this subject.
Presentations - Individual	Individual presentation 10%, 1/2 hour assessment and feedback on developing knowledge of the subject area and on developing the capacity to critically analyse and argue issues in this subject.

Contact Hours