Studying at York
Reconstructing Environmental Change - ENV00081M
Module summary
A field course in the Yorkshire Dales, mostly dealing with the glacial history of the area. There are three follow-up lab days where we analyse a core.
Module will run
| Occurrence | Teaching cycle |
|---|---|
| A | Autumn Term 2019-20 |
Module aims
This module will examine environmental changes during the Quaternary period (approximately the last 2.6 million years). A 5-day fieldtrip will take place in the Yorkshire Dales and along the west coast of England. The study of past environmental changes provides an opportunity to understand and use a range of palaeoenvironmental techniques, including analyses of foraminifera, pollen and diatoms. The module will also include reconstructing glacial environments and ice limits, karst hydrology, and sea-level changes. Field and laboratory work combined with analyses of the data will provide hands-on experience in interpreting past environmental changes.
Module learning outcomes
Subject content
- Thematic field days in the Yorkshire Dales and on the coast, relating to a range of palaeoenvironments.
- Appreciation of how knowledge of past sea-level change can be applied to inform predictions about the future.
- Knowledge and hand-on practice of palaeoenvironmental techniques used in the reconstruction of past environments.
Academic and graduate skills
- Palaeoenvironmental techniques
- Field observation
- Reading and synthesising primary scientific journal literature
- Oral presentation skills
Other learning outcomes (if applicable)
- Field-based sampling skills
- Laboratory skills, in particular sediment description and micropalaeontological analysis
Assessment
| Task | Length | % of module mark |
|---|---|---|
| Essay/coursework Field & Lab report |
N/A | 75 |
| Oral presentation/seminar/exam Presentation |
N/A | 25 |
Special assessment rules
None
Reassessment
| Task | Length | % of module mark |
|---|---|---|
| Essay/coursework Extended essay (3000 words) |
N/A | 100 |
Module feedback
Feedback on the summative report will be delivered individually and on a class basis (standard 4 week turnaround). Feedback on the presentations will be delivered in general terms during the fieldtrip and more specific on an individual basis after the trip, using the standard feedback form. Feedback will also be given during the practical sessions.
Indicative reading
Waltham, T. and Lowe, D. (ed.) 2013. Caves and Karst of the Yorkshire Dales. British Cave Research Association.
