Diploma of Conservation and Ecosystem Management

Fieldtrips may involve travelling long distances while carrying equipment over a range of terrains in all weather conditions, setting up equipment, digging small trenches for trap lines, weeding, digging and planting, and walking for extended distances up to five kilometres while carrying equipment. Fieldtrips can last up to 4 days, including overnight stays, and may involve difficult physical conditions such as severe weather and difficult terrain.

A range of adjustments to your study conditions are available through the Equitable Learning Services (ELS). You are encouraged to contact the ELS to discuss what adjustments may be helpful to you. It is recommended that you discuss the use of any strategies or assistive technology with the ELS and your program manager prior to commencing fieldtrip, as the appropriateness and practicality of some adjustments may vary in the fieldtrip environment.

During fieldtrips, you will be required to read maps and plant keys to identify and categorise flora, reference field guides to identify birds and animals, use nets and magnifying glasses to catch and identify small fresh-water vertebrates, carefully handle plant materials such as leaves, flowers and fruits, observe and identify flora and fauna, and use equipment such as binoculars and secateurs.

You will need to understand and respond to verbal communication, including working with stakeholders such as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, government agencies and community groups. You will also need to recognise, interpret, use and respond to non-verbal communication such as eye contact, gestures, facial expressions, speaking volume, tone of voice, proximity and verbal turn-taking in both on-campus and fieldtrip settings.

RMIT offers Equitable Learning Services and Counselling and Psychological Services to support students living with mental health conditions. Many people who live with mental health conditions complete their studies successfully. Students may also be supported to take time off from their studies if they become unwell or have difficulties with behavioural stability until they are ready to recommence.