Programme/Approved Electives for 2022/23
None
Available as a Free Standing Elective
No
This module provides a comprehensive introduction to a variety of specialist field, laboratory and computer-based techniques of particular relevance to physical geography and environmental science. These focus around the completion of an Environmental Impact Assessment on the university campus. The module builds upon core concepts and techniques introduced in the level 4 practical programmes whilst providing a portfolio of skills applicable to level 6 independent study projects. This module also develops of skills that are relevant to a range of specialist careers pathways.
Aims
This module aims to develop students' knowledge of undertaking research in the field and laboratory using skills and techniques appropriate to the fields of Environmental Science, Physical Geography, Environment and Sustainability and Ecology and Conservation. The module will provide students with experience of the research process from planning fieldwork and collecting data through to appropriate data analysis and presentation. Students will apply this learning to research in the real world through undertaking an Environmental Impact Assessment on the university campus. This module builds upon concepts and techniques introduced at level I and provides a portfolio of skills and techniques applicable to level III independent research projects and careers in the environmental and sustainability sector.
Intended Learning Outcomes
identify and apply appropriate research methodologies to plan and execute fieldwork and laboratory : 1identify and apply specialist geographical and environmental techniques to collect appropriate data in the field and laboratory: 1analyse, interpret and present data using methods appropriate to the fields of geography and environmental science in a written report: 1,2evaluate the data collected to identify the geographic and environmental impact and possible solutions, relevant to a range of stakeholders, related to managing environmentally sensitive developments: 1,2reflect and evaluate the quality of field and laboratory data and determine the most effective techniques for the collection, analysis and presentation of this data: 2work effectively as an individual and collaboratively as part of a team to complete a group exercise within a specified time: 1
12 X 3-hour, weekly lab and fieldwork sessions = 36 hours1 x weekly orientation session = 12 hours6 x drop-in sessions = 6 hours70 hours working on EIA Report26 hours working on video blog
Description of Module Assessment
1: Group Report weighted 80%Environmental Impact AssessmentAn industry standard, authentic Group Environmental Impact Assessment Report (2500 words). Students will work in small groups (~6 students) to produce a group report which collates, analyses and presents the data collected in the field and in the lab during the module. Each student produces a section required for the report and obtain a mark related to their individual sections. Additionally, the introduction and conclusion section must be completed as a group (worth 10% of the 80%).
2: Presentation weighted 20%Reflective Video BlogA 10 minute reflective presentation or written blog (equivalent to 1500 words) where students need to present their reflections on a) how their perceptions and understandings of completing research has changed b) what are the errors and limitations of using certain techniques in research and how can these errors be reduced c) how their experiences in this module will lead to approaching research differently in the future and what skills they have gained for their future careers.