This unit is an introduction to the impacts of the building design and construction sectors on the environment viz: Natural ecosystems including climate, hydrological cycle, basic thermodynamics, consequences of modification; ecosystem interdependency, capacity of the environment to assimilate changes; background to greenhouse concerns from the Rio Summit through to current global negotiations: social, legislative and political issues associated with modification of the natural and developed environments including environmental impact assessments; and environmental impact of development-mining and mineral processing, materials and manufacturing industries as related to the building and construction sector. This unit then provides an introduction to current activity to minimise impacts through shift to service rather than consumption based economy in the building and construction sector. This unit also requires the student to develop an understanding of requirements for regional and urban development including the legislative framework for planning control, feasibility studies, consultation and communication processes.

Every unit is reviewed for enhancement each year. At the most recent review, the following staff and student feedback items were identified and recommendations were made.

Feedback from Student feedback

The unit was structured very well. The pacing was manageable, and the sequence of assessments built into each other, creating a very linear and concise learning experience.

The redesign of assignments being reliant on the previous assignments increased student understanding. This approach will be expanded upon through the study guide refresh.

Feedback from Student feedback

Incorporate other assessment forms such as quizzes or weekly workbooks (or something of the sort) rather than only three report format assignments. It can be difficult to manage and learn the content adequately and to keep up with the assessments.

The reliance on professional report format assignment submissions will remain as they are an essential transferable professional skill. A video will be expanded to explain further time management of assignments and the supportive report structure, providing a logical template.

Feedback from Lecturer

The low attendance rate for the tutorials and resistance to becoming engaged through the MS Team remains a major weakness of many students. This manifests itself in poor performance.

There is little that has improved attendance and engagement over the past five years. It is now clear that attendance should be connected to a student's overall mark. It is suggested that 10% of the unit mark be awarded for tutorial attendance.