ENVS1007 Environmental Field Techniques and Applications

Learning Outcomes

Knowledge and Understanding

Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:

• The need for both a multi-disciplinary and an interdisciplinary approach in advancing knowledge and understanding of Earth systems, drawing, as appropriate, from the natural and the social sciences
• The processes which shape the natural world at different temporal and spatial scales and their influence on and by human activities
• The terminology, nomenclature and classification systems used in environmental science
• Methods of acquiring, interpreting and analysing environmental science information with a critical understanding of the appropriate contexts for their use
• Issues concerning the availability and sustainability of resources, for example, the different value sets relating to the Earth's resources as commodities and/or heritage
• The contribution of environmental science to debate on environmental issues and how knowledge of these forms the basis for informed concern about the Earth and its people
• The contribution of environmental science to the development of knowledge of the world we live in
• The applicability of environmental science to the world of work

Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Recognising and using subject-specific theories, paradigms, concepts and principles
• Analysing, synthesising and summarising information critically, including prior research
• Collecting and integrating several lines of evidence to formulate and test hypotheses
• Applying knowledge and understanding to complex and multidimensional problems in familiar and unfamiliar contexts
• Recognising the moral and ethical issues of investigations and appreciating the need for professional codes of conduct

Transferable and Generic Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Receiving and responding to a variety of information sources (e.g. textual, numerical, verbal, graphical)
• Developing the skills necessary for self-managed and lifelong learning (e.g. working independently, time management and organisation skills)
• Identifying and working towards targets for personal, academic and career development
• Developing an adaptable and flexible approach to study and work
• Communicating appropriately to a variety of audiences in written, verbal and graphical forms
• Appreciating issues of sample selection, accuracy, precision and uncertainty during collection, recording and analysis of data in the field and laboratory
• Preparing, processing, interpreting and presenting data, using appropriate qualitative and quantitative techniques and packages including geographic information systems
• Solving numerical problems using computer and non-computer-based techniques
• Using the internet critically as a means of communication and a source of information
• Identifying individual and collective goals and responsibilities and performing in a manner appropriate to these roles
• Recognising and respecting the views and opinions of other team members
• Evaluating performance as an individual and a team member

Subject Specific Practical Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Planning, conducting, and reporting on environmental investigations, including the use of secondary data
• Collecting, recording and analysing data using appropriate techniques in the field and laboratory
• Undertaking field and laboratory investigations in a responsible and safe manner, paying due attention to risk assessment, rights of access, relevant health and safety regulations, and sensitivity to the impact of investigations on the environment and stakeholders
• Referencing work in an appropriate manner