Module overview
This module provides an introduction to university level study and geography through curiosity, creativity and communication. There is an emphasis on academic, personal and geographical skills, introduced during lecture sessions and then applied through small group tutorials, practicals, fieldwork, digital badges and carefully designed assignments.
As a 30 credit unit, it runs across both semesters and transitions from fundamental academic skills (such as researching, referencing, academic writing and critical thinking), to more applied data- driven/geospatial skills. Non-residential human and physical geography fieldwork will be undertaken in Semester 2.
Pre-requisite of GEOG2030
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Abstract and synthesise information from a range of geographical sources including texts, journals, gateways and organisations using Delphis and other appropriate software
- To be able to identify, reflect on and articulate their skills and experiences in terms of employability and have begun to identify possible applications and careers available as a geography graduate
- Use basic statistical and data packages such as Excel
- Use, present and interrogate data within a geographical context
- Give effective oral presentations
- Produce structured and succinct written reports on complex topics
- Collect, analyse and understand geographical data using geospatial /computer techniques and maps
- Understand how to give and use constructive feedback in order to improve future performance
- Use interpersonal skills to work effectively within groups in supervisions, lectures and fieldwork
- Use geographical principles, theories and methods to design and undertake a research project based on primary data through fieldwork
- Understand the expectations of degree level work and be able to manage your time independently in order to achieve them
- Conduct field based research with appropriate techniques (both quantitative and qualitative) in a responsible and safe manner
- Provide a professional on-line presence through portfolio and Professional Geographer Level 1 e-badge
- Be able to use a simple hierarchy of questioning to think critically about geographical issues and offer predictive reasoning
Syllabus
Skills addressed in lectures: managing independent learning; time management; self-assessment of skills; gathering information in different contexts; using lectures; effective reading and note-taking; referencing and academic integrity; essay and report writing; employability; managing feedback; exam techniques and revision; oral presentation; group work; fieldwork skills; critical thought; reflection; types of data, data collection, data presentation, field enquiry and data analysis using Excel, supplemented as necessary by additional statistical software; introduction to geospatial data concepts, systems and methods.
Instruction in field-based observation and research techniques within Physical and Human Geography is also given. Students are involved in research design, effective group work, oral presentations, and report writing as well as the appropriate use of geospatial methods.
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
A range of learning and teaching methods will be used in order to achieve the learning outcomes through encouraging curiosity and creativity in the students, and enabling then to communicate this in a number of different ways.
a) Large group lectures will provide guidance on academic skills and key geospatial ideas, and use technology such as Vevox, to encourage interactivity and check understanding.
b) Small group supervisions (with Personal Academic Tutor) wherever possible, will enable a safe environment to practice key skills and get the necessary feedback for example, essay writing, group debate, presentations, sharing progress of digital e-badges
c) Practical sessions to practice techniques and give support with related assignments.
d) Fieldwork to apply geographical skills, and transferable skills such as groupwork, data collection and interpretation, research design
e) Inputs from year 2 and 3 students, potential employers, voluntary organisations and skills professionals encourage students to begin to think early about their career development, and to make the most of the full range of opportunities available during their UG journey.
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Teaching | 87 |
| Independent Study | 213 |
| Total study time | 300 |
Resources & Reading list
General Resources
Other. Core texts for both the qualitative and quantitative aspects of the course will be highlighted, with all resources to accompany lectures and perform tasks and assessments, available from the BlackBoard site Access to ArcGIS (included via Southampton's site licence agreement with ESRI) and support from iSolutions required to set up user access for the students. Fieldwork travel and other expenses as appropriate.
Assessment
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Essay | 15% |
| Presentation | 10% |
| Portfolio | 20% |
| Practical | 20% |
| Field project | 20% |
| Essay | 15% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External