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Semester 1: Foundation
Description
Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM) has been defined as ‘an approach that coordinates the development and management of water, land, and related resources in order to maximise the resultant economic and social welfare in an equitable manner without compromising the sustainability of vital ecosystems.’1 Water managers require a broad framework and systems understanding of water issues in order to adopt an integrated approach.
1. UNDP (2006) Human Development Report 2006: Water and human development. Palgrave Macmillan.
The Foundation semester provides a unique experience which enables students to learn the skills they need to speak the common language of integrated water management. Guided by a multidisciplinary team of lecturers and water practitioners, students learn the fundamentals of water science, sustainability, policy and governance and apply this knowledge through problem solving exercises, project work and practical case study applications. Particular emphasis is placed on project management, allowing students to build their ability to communicate effectively in cross-sectoral project teams.
Learning Objectives
Upon successful completion of the Foundation semester, students will be able to:
- Communicate current principles, concepts and practical tools involved in whole of water cycle approaches;
- Work in interdisciplinary teams to develop solutions to complex water-related problems;
- Undertake project design, implementation, management, monitoring and evaluation strategies in real world contexts;
- Apply statistical methods and fundamental water science principles to particular water issues;
- Understand cross-cutting issues relating to water and the environment, including climate change, gender equity and poverty;
- Appreciate the unique challenges of implementing IWRM in developing and developed economies; and
- Recognise the role of governance and stakeholder participation in water management.
Lecture Modules
Science of Water (WATR7000, #2)
This module provides students with an introduction to the concepts and practices of integrated water resource management, with an emphasis on whole of water cycle and adaptive management approaches. The course provides a sound foundation in the principles of water science, aquatic ecology and the hydrological cycle as well as an understanding of the dynamic relationship between human and natural systems.
Water, Sustainability & Development (WATR7001, #2)
This module focuses on the challenges of implementing integrated water management in the development context, with particular reference to global commitments to meet water supply and sanitation goals. Students learn the broad theories underpinning global sustainable development initiatives and how these theories apply to water access and use. Emphasis is placed on the linkages between water and development concerns, particularly poverty alleviation, public health, livelihood security and gender equity.
Water Governance and Policy (WATR7002, #2)
In this module, students gain a broad understanding of international governance, legislative and regulatory frameworks as well as more in-depth understanding of the principles and practice of catchment-level water policy. Emphasis is placed on economic instruments such as: water pricing policies; allocation and property rights; the equitable distribution of water; and mechanisms to safeguard access to water for marginal groups.
Project Management (WATR7003, #2)
This module trains students in the skills, tools and techniques necessary to manage a broad range of project activities. Students learn the principles of project management through each stage of the project cycle: from initial problem analysis, scoping and project design, to the management of administrative, logistical and financial aspects of project implementation, to data analysis and ongoing monitoring and evaluation. Focusing on project management for the water sector, the course emphasises participatory project management and frameworks for cross-sectoral collaboration.
CRICOS Provider Number: 00025B
CRICOS Codes: 059263A, 059262B, 059261C
