Macquarie University

Bringing the practical reality of environmental management into the classroom

Practice-based learning and strong ties to industry are core features of Macquarie’s Graduate School of the Environment.

The practical backgrounds of many GSE academics differentiate them from others in the field. “A large proportion of people who do this research do so from a theoretical perspective, though GSE has a strong focus on practical implementation,” says Tim Cohen, Lecturer in Environmental Science.

This practical focus translates to a “hands-on” approach to teaching. “We try to give students exposure to landscape rehabilitation techniques in the field and practical-based components. We look at urban bushland management, ecological restoration and river engineering,” says Tim.

“These live examples also serve to expose students to the personal and financial constraints that inhibit and promote environmental management. Students meet with landowners and individual farmers, learning what can and can’t be done.”

GSE classes also regularly feature industry members as guest lecturers to broaden the learning experience. “We target individuals who have actively worked in implementation, such as CEO’s of council management authorities, not-for-profit environmental groups, directors of government departments, environmental agencies and industry educators,” says Tim.

“Most GSE students are already employed so the guest lecturer’s presentations offer the students a chance to engage with issues they have faced in the workplace.”

GSE puts a strong emphasis on field-based learning in its postgraduate programs

One particular GSE class, Environmental Management and Analysis, fully immerses students in the field. The class involves a week-long trip to Jervis Bay, south of Sydney. “The trip serves as an introduction to field science for many students. They’re exposed to a range of sub-disciplines within environmental science and the different techniques these disciplines use to collect data such as social analysis, marine ecology data collection, and soil and water quality analysis.”

Read more about the programs available through the Graduate School of the Environment.