Subject Descriptions

SECTION LINKS

Foundation Studies

English for Tertiary Studies
Covers a wide range of reading, writing, speaking and listening English skills as required for university level study. These include skills in reading comprehension; researching and referencing; note taking, summarising and paraphrasing; academic writing and participation in presentations and formal discussions. Appropriate study techniques and time management methods for academic success are also taught.

Biology
Two main themes are covered.
Evolution of Life provides an introduction to topics such as cell biology, plants, animals and the human body, as well as ecology and evolution. The emphasis is on the understanding of biological processes and evolutionary trends. The course contains a large practical component introducing microscope techniques, scientific drawing and general laboratory procedures.
Environmental Studies provides a specific focus on ecosystem ecology, biodiversity and conservation in a uniquely Tasmanian environment. There are opportunities for survey design, practical excursions and project work.

Chemistry
Provides students with a strong foundation in the concepts of chemistry. Topics covered include chemical reactions and equations, the structure of materials, gases, corrosion, acid and bases. Contains a practical component introducing the use of glassware, spectroscopy and safety in the laboratory.

Information Management
Introduces students to the essential use of computers and applications as tools for undertaking study at University. Topics include an introduction to MyLO, the University's online learning system; basic and advanced usage of MS Word and Excel; advanced online information search methods; and information management principles. Students will use the skills they learn in order to undertake a range of individual and group-based projects.

Legal Studies
Provides an introduction to the legal system in Australia by covering core topics - how laws are made, criminal law, civil law, and the rights and responsibilities of drivers, consumers and tenants. Elective topics of contract law, technology and the law, and sport and the law are available.

Management
Aims to investigate the nature of management, including the roles and skills of managers, the responsibility of stakeholders, and the importance of effective management. Management is studied and investigated as a process of co-ordinating a range of resources, whether in the form of money, people or equipment, to achieve an organisation's goals.

Marketing
Provides students with a comprehensive grounding in the roles of markets and marketing in the business environment. Understanding the modern, globally competitive business environment is a key component of the marketing course. Students investigate ways in which businesses survive and thrive in these new markets. The factors affecting consumer choices are investigated with a view to understanding the marketing techniques used by companies, on both a small and large scale.

Mathematics
Aims to provide students with competence in the fundamental mathematical skills required for university level studies. Commences with revision of basic mathematical concepts - sets, properties of real numbers, indices, logarithms, surds and basic algebraic methods. Subsequent work includes elements of trigonometry, simple function study, basic calculus, and introductory probability and statistics.

Physics
Provides an introduction to physics, including a knowledge and understanding of Newtonian mechanics, electromagnetism, wave motion and of modern and nuclear physics. It is broadly aligned with the syllabus material covered in the Senior Secondary Physics 5C course and is designed to enable students to succeed at the tertiary level. This course is particularly useful to students contemplating taking a degree in Medical Research, Pharmacy, Engineering or Science at university.

Psychology
Introduces students to some key theories and concepts in psychology, develops skills in writing in a scientific discipline, and raises awareness of the role of scientific method of enquiry in psychology. Lectures will cover topics such as research methods, the brain, memory, intelligence, stress and coping, and social psychology.

Communication and Design
Encourages students to develop critical thinking skills through study and analysis of established and contemporary research in areas of culture and communication, with a focus on intercultural communication in a globalised world. The second semester is focussed on developing creative thinking skills through the design of a creative portfolio. Students are required to establish a position on a contemporary issue and to defend it using visual evidence.

Please note that students will need to purchase textbooks and workbooks for use during the course. A booklist will be made available at the beginning of the program.
Please also note that a subject may not be run if there are insufficient numbers to form a class.