ESC-20108 - Module Specification
School of Life Sciences
Faculty of Natural Sciences

Programme/Approved Electives for 2025/26

Available as a Free Standing Elective

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2025/26

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 elements 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 skills that are relevant to a range of specialist career pathways.

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 elements of 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
: 1
identify and apply specialist geographical and environmental techniques to collect appropriate data in the field and laboratory: 1
analyse, interpret and present data using methods appropriate to the fields of geography and environmental science in a written report: 1
evaluate 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
evaluate the quality of field and laboratory data and determine the most effective techniques for the collection, analysis and presentation of this data: 1
work effectively as an individual and collaboratively as part of a team to complete a group exercise within a specified time: 1

Study hours

12 X 3-hour, weekly lab and fieldwork sessions = 36 hours
12 x hours groupwork (independently organised)
102 hours working on EIA Report and independent study

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment