Key facts
UNE unit code: GEPL315
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Not offered in 2026
- Yes
- No
- No
- 6
Unit information
Uncertainty is a troubling condition of contemporary policy-making, especially in contested areas like climate change adaptation and natural hazard mitigation where predictions about the future are often disputed.
In these contexts, partnerships between researchers and policy makers can be tense and precarious, but they are also rich with opportunities for innovative and constructive endeavour.
In this unit you will explore relationships between scientific research and policy development in contexts of uncertainty. You will interrogate the critical challenges and opportunities in those relationships. With a broad focus on environmental policy, the unit incorporates theory and case studies in governance, the sciences, and policy development.
Future proof your career in policy design and learn how to create positive working relationships.
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- demonstrate a broad and coherent understanding of the relationship of evidence to policy development;
- demonstrate a broad and coherent understanding of key case studies in environmental science and policy development;
- exercise skills in the analysis and evaluation of evidence within policy frameworks; and
- demonstrate communication skills in policy contexts.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Case Study Report | Yes | 50% | All offerings | No. Words: 3000 |
| Case study presentation | Yes | 20% | All offerings | Video presentation of case study No. Words: 7 minutes (500 words) |
| Research Essay | Yes | 30% | All offerings | No. Words: 2000 |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Textbook information will be displayed approximately 8 weeks prior to the commencement of the teaching period. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
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