2027 Unit information is now available. View 2027 unit information
Cradle Coast, Hobart, Launceston, Online
Introduction
XAB084 Introductory Scientific Principles is designed to give you foundational knowledge in both theoretical and practical science. The unit will introduce you to the importance of engaging with scientific thinking and reasoning, methodology, precision and accuracy in measurement, and written scientific communication. You will develop practical skills, using relevant scientific theory and concepts in multiple science disciplines, that will support your further studies. The major concepts covered in this unit are scientific thinking, properties and structures of matter, elements, ions and compounds. You will develop basic laboratory skills through collecting, analysing and representing data, and scientific writing skills through reporting on experimental outcomes
Summary
| Unit name | Introductory Scientific Principles |
| Unit code | XAB084 |
| Credit points | 12.5 |
| College/School | University College |
| Discipline | Pathways |
| Coordinator | Doctor Matthew Fielding |
| Available as an elective? | Yes |
| Delivered By | University of Tasmania |
| Level | Foundation or Enabling |
Sustainable Development Goals
The Unit Coordinator has identified that this unit aligns with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals. We welcome your thoughts and feedback on the alignment of the unit with these goals.
Availability
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
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| Cradle Coast | Semester 2 |
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| Hobart | Semester 1 |
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| Hobart | Semester 2 |
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| Launceston | Semester 1 |
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| Launceston | Semester 2 |
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| Online | Semester 1 |
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| Online | Semester 2 |
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- Key:
- On-campus
- Off-Campus
- International students
- Domestic students
Note
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Key Dates
| Study Period | Start date | Census date | WW date | End date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Semester 1 | 22/2/2026 | 16/3/2026 | 19/4/2026 | 13/6/2026 |
| Semester 2 | 5/7/2026 | 27/7/2026 | 30/8/2026 | 24/10/2026 |
* 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 2026 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2026 will be available from the 1st October 2025. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).
Learning Outcomes
- Describe major theories, concepts, and models related to various branches of science
- Conduct scientific experiments using appropriate tools and techniques
- Communicate background information, methods, results, arguments and reflection through scientific writing
- Evaluate claims and scientific concepts to support conclusions by using academic sources
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 |
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| 019900 | $1,192.00 | $1,192.00 | not applicable | $2,862.00 |
- 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
| Assessment | AT1: Safety|AT2: Weekly Learning Quizzes (30%)|AT4: Report (30%)|AT3: Lab Book Experiments (40%) |
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| Timetable | View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable |
Textbooks
| Required |
All required readings are provided by your Unit Coordinator within MyLO Module content. |
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| Recommended | None |
The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.