Earth Evolution unit (KEA102)

Hobart, Online

Introduction

The unit provides a broad understanding of the dynamic processes that are active at and near the surface of the Earth and is suitable for general science and arts students with an interest in the geological sciences. KEA102 is a required unit in the Earth Sciences major, and prerequisite for the study of Earth Science units at second year level. The unit delves back through the layers of time, examining fossils and rocks to uncover the evolution of Earth. There is a particular focus on Earth's recent history, contrasting natural vs. anthropogenic changes on Earth systems. The unit is also focused on sustainability - a global challenge of the United Nations. The unit investigates Earth resources that fuel our civilisation and provide critical metals for a net carbon zero future. It brings geoscience into the context of our environment, encompassing issues such as mining, groundwater and natural hazards. Practical sessions are devoted to understanding ancient life, identifying ore minerals and understanding processes of ore formation, understanding environmental issues such as groundwater flow, and introducing hydrocarbon exploration methods. A short excursion explores some of Hobart's geological hazards. A separate one day field trip will reinforce aspects of ore geology and unravel the history recorded in sedimentary rocks spanning one of the greatest global mass extinction events.

Summary

Unit name	Earth Evolution
Unit code	KEA102
Credit points	12.5
College/School	Sciences and Engineering School of Natural Sciences
Discipline	Earth Sciences
Coordinator	Doctor Owen Missen
Available as an elective?	Yes
Delivered By	University of Tasmania
Level	Introductory

Availability

Location	Study period	Attendance options		Available to
Hobart	Semester 2
Online	Semester 2

Note

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Units are offered in attending mode unless otherwise indicated (that is attendance is required at the campus identified). A unit identified as offered by distance, that is there is no requirement for attendance, is identified with a nominal enrolment campus. A unit offered to both attending students and by distance from the same campus is identified as having both modes of study.

Key Dates

Study Period	Start date	Census date	WW date	End date
Semester 2	05/07/2027	27/07/2027	30/08/2027	24/10/2027

* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).

Unit census dates currently displaying for 2027 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2027 will be available from the 1st October 2026. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).

About Census Dates

Learning Outcomes

• Outline major scientific theories and ideas on the geological and geobiological history of Earth
• Identify fossils, rocks and minerals, including those associated with Earth resources
• Describe how human activities influence surface and near surface environments on Earth

Fee Information

Field of Education	Commencing Student Contribution 1,3	Grandfathered Student Contribution 1,3	Approved Pathway Course Student Contribution 2,3	Domestic Full Fee 4
010703	$1,235.00	$1,235.00	not applicable

• Available as a Commonwealth Supported Place
• HECS-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility³
• FEE-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility⁴

¹ Please refer to more information on student contribution amounts.
² Please refer to more information on eligibility and Approved Pathway courses.
³ Please refer to more information on eligibility for HECS-HELP.
⁴ Please refer to more information on eligibility for FEE-HELP.

If you have any questions in relation to the fees, please contact UniConnect or more information is available on StudyAssist.

Please note: international students should refer to What is an indicative Fee? to get an indicative course cost.

Teaching

Teaching Pattern	On campus students: 2 hours lectures weekly (asynchronous, prerecorded, 12 weeks), 1 x 1-hr tutorial weekly (12 weeks), 3-hr lab weekly (12 weeks), fieldwork – one 3 hour and one 6 hour field excursion in Hobart Off campus students: 2 hours lectures weekly (asynchronous, prerecorded, 12 weeks); 1 x 1-hr online tutorial (12 weeks), 3-hr online lab weekly (12 weeks), fieldwork – one 3 hour and one 6 hour virtual field excursion (with optional in-person attendance available in Hobart) All activities can be completed asynchronously for anyone are not able to attend the timetabled activities on a given week, or at all (tutorials and practicals are recorded for self-directed learning).
Assessment	Excursion (15%)|Assessment Task 1: Online quizzes (20%)|Timed test (x3) (30%)|Weekly practicals (35%)
Timetable	View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable

Textbooks

Required	Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes.

The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.