This module will provide students with an understanding of a range of contemporary environmental issues such as climate change, pollution, contaminants and land use change. These topics will be discussed through small-group tutorials. Students will gain skills in essay writing and oral presentations, and they will be assessed through group presentations and individual essays on specific environmental topics.
Professional requirements
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Module will run
Occurrence
Teaching period
A
Autumn Term 2022-23
Module aims
To provide students with an understanding of key concepts in Environmental Science using a problem-based approach in a series of seminars. Students will examine case studies in a range of environments, from the oceans to the atmosphere. These fundamental environmental concepts will feed into more advanced modules in years 2 and 3.
To enable students to explore a range of current environmental challenges with research experts, considering the wider context, implications and solutions for each environmental challenge.
To provide students with key skills training in the research process - finding and using sources, then communicating this knowledge through essays and oral presentation.
Module learning outcomes
Subject content
Be able to demonstrate an understanding of today’s environmental problems and their solutions, and to put them into a wider context.
Academic and graduate skills
Be competent in discussing scientific papers in a group, and recognise and respect the views and opinions of other students
Be competent in obtaining and summarising environmental science information critically from reliable sources
Be able to present information verbally in a structured, informative and interesting manner
Be able to write a structured, informative and well-researched essay
Module content
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Assessment
Task
Length
% of module mark
Coursework - extensions not feasible/practicable Contribution and Participation
N/A
15
Essay/coursework 1500 Word Essay
N/A
65
Oral presentation/seminar/exam Presentation
N/A
20
Special assessment rules
None
Additional assessment information
The students will receive formative feedback during sessions.
Reassessment
Task
Length
% of module mark
Essay/coursework 1500 Word Essay
N/A
100
Module feedback
Written individual feedback to the essay will be provided according to standard Environment Department “turnaround time” of four weeks. The students will also receive written feedback on their presentation. Dedicated feedback sessions will offer the students further feedback and opportunity to ask questions.