Module Specification · 2020. 9. 14. · Module Specification No. Assessment Description Weight % Qual Mark Exam Hours Ass't Group Alt Reass't 001 Essay 50 002 Presentation (Final)

Module Specification

No. Assessment Description Weight % Qual Mark Exam Hours Ass't Group Alt Reass't

001 Essay 50002 Presentation (Final) 50003 Plagiarism Test 0 40

Period: Semester 1Occurence: ACoordinator: Kevin TanseyMark Scheme: UG Pass for Credit

Academic Year: 2017/8Module Level: Year 1Scheme: UGDepartment: GeographyCredits: 10

Intended Learning OutcomesBy the end of this module students will be able to:Demonstrate their ability to locate, critically evaluate and appropriately use information in the study of geography;Communicate geographical concepts and information in written and oral formats;Work effectively as a member of a group to collectively explore geographical concepts.

Teaching and Learning MethodsLectures; Tutorials; Practical Classes/Workshops; Independent Study.

Assessment MethodsEssay; Presentation.

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites

Excluded Combinations-

Guided Independent Study: Indicative Activities

Lectures 12Seminars

Practical Classes & Workshops 1Tutorials 8

FieldworkProject Supervision

Guided Independent Study 79Demonstration

Supervised time in studio/workshopWork Based Learning

PlacementYear Abroad

Total Module Hours 100

Student Workload (hours)

GY1027 Study Skills for Professional Geographers

Last Published: 18 March 2021



001 Short Answer Test 25 0.67002 Written Exam (Final) 75 1.5

Period: Semester 1Occurence: ACoordinator: Clare MadgeMark Scheme: UG Pass for Credit


Intended Learning OutcomesOn successful completion of the module, students should be able to:

- define key geographical concepts, especially place, space, spatiality and scale;- describe different ways of understanding difference and inequality at various spatial scales;- outline the multiple and contested meanings of 'globalizatioon';- describe how history matters to understanding contemporary geographies of globalization;- outline how place matters to a variety of social, cultural, economic and political processes that are studied by contemporarygeographers

Teaching and Learning MethodsLectures, Directed Reading; Independent Study

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative Activitiesreading for lectures; reviewing/making deeper lecture notes having followed up reading, background reading for assessments;revision for short answer test and written exam

Lectures 30Seminars

Practical Classes & WorkshopsTutorials







GY1411 Human Geography for a Globalized World




001 Coursework: Critical Review Essay 50002 Short Answer Exam 50 1

Period: Semester 2Occurence: ACoordinator: Brett MatulisMark Scheme: UG Pass for Credit



- Understand the various historical and contemporary ways of conceptualising nature- Acquire a historical perspective of environmental governance- Explain how environmental values are changing and with what social consequences- Use a variety of case examples to explain ecosystem degradation, land use conflicts, issues social justice, and resourceextraction dilemmas- Understand a variety of solutions to ongoing environmental tensions through restoration projects, degrowth, and alternativeknowledges

Teaching and Learning MethodsLecturesTopical seminarsDirected ReadingFilm

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesReading for seminarsIndependent reading for coursework assignmentGuided personal reflection exercises

Lectures 20Seminars


Fieldwork 6Project Supervision






GY1412 Environment / Nature / Society




001 Group Oral Presentation 40002 Field Notebook 60003 Field Report 100 Y

Period: Semester 2Occurence: ACoordinator: Katy BennettMark Scheme: UG Pass for Credit



1. critically observe and describe the relationship between people and place using field observation techniques in case studyresearch;2. critique and evaluate information sources;3. work effectively as a member of a group to collectively explore geographical concepts and tasks;4. develop key basic research skills around field notebooks, listening and presenting data

Teaching and Learning MethodsLectures; seminars; fieldwork

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative Activitiesguided reading; supervised field research; preparation work for tutorials/seminars

Lectures 4Seminars 6








GY1413 Human Geography Fieldcourse: The dynamics of people and place




001 Test 80 0.75002 Practicals 20

Period: Semester 2Occurence: ACoordinator: Kirsten BarrettMark Scheme: UG Pass for Credit



- describe and summarize quantitative geographical data numerically and graphically;- explain the difference between samples and populations of quantitative data and the implications these differences have formanipulating sampled data;- select an appropriate test of difference or association to test hypotheses based the descriptive statistical analyses;- carry out tests of difference (t-tests and chi-sq tests) on geographical data and interpret and evaluate the results;- perform ordinary least squares regression and interpret the relationship between response and explanatory variables.

Teaching and Learning MethodsLectures; Computer Based Practical Classes.

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesReading for seminars, reviewing lecture notes and following up on concepts with materials from Blackboard resources folderor independent searches for information, preparing for practical exercises or completing these.

Lectures 10Seminars

Practical Classes & Workshops 20Tutorials







GY1421 Working with Geographic Information




001 Essay 1 33002 Essay 2 34003 Presentation (final) 33004 Plagiarism Test 0 40




1. Demonstrate their ability to locate, critically evaluate and appropriately use information in the study of geography;2. Communicate geographical concepts and information in written and oral formats;3. Work effectively as a member of a group to collectively explore geographical concepts

Teaching and Learning MethodsLectures; Tutorials; Practical class/workshop.

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesReading; working on referencing; developing Powerpoint presentation skills

Lectures 12Seminars








GY1422 Skills for Professional Geographers




001 Computer Based Test 1 50 1002 Computer Based Test 2 50 1




1. Obtain knowledge of the sources and availability of geographical data in digital form2. Use a geographical information system to perform basic analytical operations3. Use a remote sensing system to perform basic analytical operations4. Demonstrate skills for manipulating geographical information and solving geographical problems5. Demonstrate abilities in the use of IT, numeracy, problem solving and information handling

Teaching and Learning MethodsLectures; Computer-Based Practicals; Independent Study

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesDirected reading, revision of both lecture and practical material

Lectures 7Seminars








GY1423 Exploring our Digital Planet




001 Term Test 1 15 1002 Term Test 2 15 1003 January Exam 70 1.5

Period: Semester 1Occurence: ACoordinator: Andrew CarrMark Scheme: UG Pass for Credit



- Explain the major controls on planetary temperatures and the implications for planetary habitability.- Understand the nature and divisions of geological time, and how geological time is measured- Outline the major classes and divisions of life on earth- Explain the operation of the 3 major biogeochemical cycles – the carbon, nitrogen and phosphorous cycles- Carry out basic numerical operations and explain/define basic scientific terms and (SI) units

Teaching and Learning MethodsLearning objectives 1 to 4 are taught via a series of 18 lectures, supported by weekly clinics for students to review materialsfrom the lectures and their own supplementary readings with a tutor. 3 tutorials spaced through the course will discuss keyconcepts from the lectures using assigned readings as a means to begin the discussion. Numeracy and scientific terminologyrefresher material, designed to support ongoing learning through the first year and BSc degree will be taught through self-helpand self-assessmentmaterials provided on the VLE, supported by the weekly clinic, which will allow students to work through concepts/problemswith a tutor.

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesAssigned reading and associated preparation for the three course tutorials, continuous reading to support lecture materials(course text book and specific reading list provided), science and numeracy self-assessment and worksheet material, optionalpreparation for attendance of (optional) weekly clinic sessions.

Lectures 18Seminars

Practical Classes & WorkshopsTutorials 3



Supervised time in studio/workshop 9Work Based Learning




GY1431 Evolution of the Earth System




001 Departmental Term Time Multiple Choice Test 30 0.33002 Examination (Final) 70 1.5

Period: Semester 2Occurence: ACoordinator: Jorg KadukMark Scheme: UG Pass for Credit



- Discuss the basic principles of weathering, soil formation, landscape denudation and chemical and nutrient cycles and theirnatural and anthropogenic controls;- Apply these principles to account for the global distribution of soils, landforms, denudation rates, ecosystems and biomes;- Explain the basic physical processes involved in climate and how they interact to produce the global circulation and globalclimates

Teaching and Learning MethodsLectures, Supervised problem solving, Directed Reading, Independent Study, Self Assessment

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesRequired reading, recommended videos, short video clips on particular concepts, development of thought/concept maps

Lectures 17Seminars








GY1432 Landscape-Ecosystem Dynamics




001 Practical Report 40002 Field Notebook 40003 Fieldwork Group Presentation (Final) 20




- critically observe and describe the physical environment using a range of field and laboratory techniques and compile a fieldnotebook- appreciate the spatial and temporal variability of physical phenomena; Report, field notebook communicate geographicalconcepts and information in a variety of formats;- describe society-environment relationships;- work effectively as a member of a group to collectively explore geographical concepts and tasks, design and execute a smallresearch project, evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of their individual approach to the study of geography and identifystrategies for further developing their skills as a professional geographer.

Teaching and Learning MethodsLectures, Tutorials, Seminars, Surgeries, Directed Reading, Lab Practical Classes, Field Courses & Visits, IndependentResearch; Independent Study

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesTutorials, directed and required reading, workshop, supervision

Lectures 8Seminars


Fieldwork 26Project Supervision 6






GY1433 Field and Laboratory Techniques for Physical Geographers (BSc, BSc Phys)




001 Multi choice test 100 0.75




1. Explain the difference between samples and populations of quantitative data and the implications these differences havefor manipulating sampled data2. Select an appropriate test of difference or association to test hypotheses based the descriptive statistical analyses;3. Carry out tests of difference (t-tests and chi-sq tests) on geographical data and interpret and evaluate the results;4. Perform ordinary least squares regression and interpret the relationship between response and explanatory variables.

Teaching and Learning MethodsLectures and Computer Based Practical Classes supported by independent reading of the textbook and additional resourcesregularly posted to Blackboard. Students are encouraged to interact through direct question and answer sessions during thelecture as well as polling using response clickers.

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesReading for seminars, reviewing lecture notes and following up on concepts with materials from Blackboard resources folderor independent searches for information, preparing for practical exercises or completing these.

Lectures 10Seminars






Total Module Hours


GY1434 Working With Geographical Information




001 Coursework: Critical Review Essay 40002 Short Answer Exam 40 1003 Presentation 20

Period: Semester 2Occurence: ACoordinator: Brett MatulisMark Scheme: UG Pass for Credit



- Understand the various historical and contemporary ways of conceptualising nature- Acquire a historical perspective of environmental governance- Explain how environmental values are changing and with what social consequences- Use a variety of case examples to explain ecosystem degradation, land use conflicts, issues social justice, and resourceextraction dilemmas- Understand a variety of solutions to ongoing environmental tensions through restoration projects, degrowth, and alternativeknowledges- Reflect on personal development obtained through this module in the context of the sustainability minor

Teaching and Learning MethodsInteractive lectures that guide students through the module content.Question / answer breakouts that encourage student-to-student and student-to-lecturer dialogue. Delivery of visual content (primarily youtube length films) to engage a wider range of learning types.A reading the landscape field trip to the countryside that integrates key module topics to local environmental issues.Directed reading targeted at development of independent comprehension.

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesIndependent reading for coursework assignmentDedicated drop-in sessions / coursework surgeries to facilitate directed independent learning.Guided personal reflection exercisesPreparation of presentation on reflective personal development

Lectures 20Seminars








GY1499 Environment / Nature / Society




001 Seen Exam 100 2

Period: Semester 1Occurence: ACoordinator: Benjamin ColesMark Scheme: UG Pass for Credit



- Explain key theoretical perspectives in Human Geography including their historical origins and contemporary relevance- Assess the relevance of particular theoretical perspectives to the development of contemporary Human Geography- Critically analyse the history and philosophy of the discipline as it relates to its contemporary practice (e.g. how havetheoretical perspectives developed historically and how are these perspectives deployed, interrogated, dismissed and revivedin contemporary human geography).

Teaching and Learning MethodsLectures, seminars, tutorials and guided independent study

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesActivities for guided independent study should include reading and informal discussion in support of lectures and seminarsand in preparation for the exam. Additional independent study should include note revision and supplimentary research andreading to support individual learning, lectures and seminars as well as in preparation for final exam and future modules inHuman Geography.









GY2410 Histories and Philosophies of Human Geography




001 Essay 50002 Exam (Final) 50 1.75

Period: Semester 1Occurence: ACoordinator: Caroline UptonMark Scheme: UG Pass for Credit



- Understand and explain the contested nature of 'development' & 'environment' in theory and practice- Evaluate the importance of history in understanding contemporary development divides- Analyse the impacts of contemporary 'development' on different spaces, places and environments- Understand the contested nature and practices of 'environmental governance'

Teaching and Learning MethodsLectures; Tutorials; Seminars; Films; Independent Study

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesReading for seminars; preparation for coursework assignment and exam; key readings for lectures and notes









GY2411 Environment and Development




001 Coursework Essay (midterm) 20002 Coursework Essay (Final) 80




- Use a 'commodity circuits' approach to examine contemporary geographical developments in some of the key sectors in theglobal economy.- Use 'nexus thinking' to examine the dynamics between key 'regions' in the global political and economicsystem.

Teaching and Learning MethodsLectures; Tutorials; Surgeries; Directed Reading; Independent. Module assessment includes 1 formative assessmentweighted at 20% and 1 summative assessment weighted at 80%

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesReading for seminars, reviewing/making deeper lecture notes having followed up reading, background reading forassignments.

Lectures 18Seminars








GY2412 Economy, Society and Space




001 Coursework 50002 Exam 50 2

Period: Semester 1Occurence: ACoordinator: Loretta LeesMark Scheme: UG Pass for Credit



- Explain the key approaches to study of social and cultural geography.- Assess the relevance of the cultural turn and poststructural thinking to explaining social and cultural phenomena.- Analyse how social and cultural spaces/places are contructed, experienced, felt, represented and materialised.- Critically analyse how social and cultural phenomena are expressed in diverse contexts (eg different places) and at variousscales (local, national, global).

Teaching and Learning MethodsLectures, seminars, surgeries, driected reading, independent study and field trip

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesSelf-led field trips covering issues in the course.









GY2413 Social and Cultural Geography




001 Reflective Methods Essay 40002 Dissertation Proposal (Final) 60 40




- Demonstrate an awareness of the principles and techniques of data collection in human geography research includingsurveys, interviews, participant observation, archival research methods.- Demonstrate knowledge of techniques or strategies for analysing qualitative data.- Be able to make decisions on the appropriateness of the use of different forms of data to address geographical issues.- Identify a focussed and viable geographical research project via a literature review.- Develop a research proposal, showing a firm grasp of how to formulate research questions, design a research methodologyand recognise and appreciate the moral and ethical issues involved in undertaking research.

Teaching and Learning MethodsLectures, practicals, workshops, Computer Aided Learning, one-to-one supervision, Independent Reasearch, IndependentStudy.

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesMaking deeper lecture notes having followed up reading, background reading for assignments and supervision sessions withsupervisor, developing library skills, designing a research question for supervision sessions with supervisor, drafting adissertation research proposal in preparation for workshop.

Lectures 14Seminars


FieldworkProject Supervision 3






GY2414 Research Design and Methods (with Dissertation Planning)




001 Group Fieldtrip Presentation 10002 Group Field Blog 15003 Individual Research Report (Final) 75

Period: Semester 2Occurence: ACoordinator: Margaret ByronMark Scheme: UG Pass for Credit



- identify a focused and viable geographical research project via a literature review;- develop a research question;- write a research proposal, showing a firm grasp of how to design a research methodology and to recognise and appreciatethe moral and ethical issues involved in undertaking research- description and analysis of geographical features and collect data relevant to specific research questions and theories- Use appropriate geographical research techniques to undertake an independent piece of fieldwork

Teaching and Learning MethodsLectures, Seminars, Field Courses & Visits, Independent Research, Independent Study.

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesMost of the preparatory work for this module involves students working in groups to plan their group research projects beforethe field trip. Students work together to devise a research question. They individually undertake considerable reading aroundthe theme and share this information together weaving it into their project proposal. While staff are available for consultationduring the weekly timetabled meetings for the module, students are expected to work in their groups and individually on thisproject. Following the field trip they write up their research report individually following consultation at a post -field worksession with the field trip staff.

There is further guided independent study required as preparatory reading for the theme days on the field trip. Students followup an advance lecture on each theme day with reading on the theme day topics. Starter reading lists are provided by staff andstudents are required to review literature from and beyond this list.









GY2415 Geographical Research in the Field (Human Geography Overseas Field Course)




001 Essay 50002 Examination (Final) 50 1.5

Period: Semester 2Occurence: ACoordinator: Gavin BrownMark Scheme: UG Pass for Credit



- describe the development of different geographical modes of thinking about politics- define and apply key geographical concepts pertaining to geopolitics and political geography- explain the relationship between the state and territory at different spatial scales- explain the changing forms and functions of the state- explain the relationship between place, participation and citizenship

Teaching and Learning MethodsLectures; seminars and workshops, surgeries; directed reading; virtual learning environment.

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative Activitiesreading for lectures and seminars; reviewing/making deeper lecture notes having followed up reading, background reading forassessments; revision for examination









GY2416 Political Geography: Space, Territory and Power




001 Practicals 50002 Exam 50 1.5

Period: Semester 2Occurence: ACoordinator: Nicholas TateMark Scheme: UG Pass for Credit



- Input, interrogate and map data using a GIS- Apply the theory of basic GIS operators and analytical approaches to a variety of geographical problems- Demonstrate an awareness of the variety of ways in which digital spatially-referenced data, qualitative or quantitative, maybe collected and represented- Outline, explain and critically evaluate a variety of spatial data analysis techniques with reference to a number ofgeographical examples

Teaching and Learning MethodsLectures, Computer Practical Classes, Exam, Guided Independent Study

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesReading; Computer analyses; Mapping

Lectures 10Seminars








GY2421 Geographical Information Science




001 Written Report 50002 Learning Log (Final) 20003 Individual Work-Based Assessment 30

Period: Semester 2Occurence: ACoordinator: Margaret ByronMark Scheme: UG Pass for Credit



- Discuss the basic principles of teaching methods and identify the key aspects of teaching geography in schools- Prepare lesson plans and teaching materials for geography secondary education, answer questions about their subject anddevise appropriate ways to communicate difficult principles or concepts.- Apply the principles of teaching geography to working in a challenging and unpredictable working environment- Address the needs of individuals and think about the different methods of presentation that are appropriate to the groupsthey are working with.

Teaching and Learning MethodsLectures, seminar/classes, project supervision surgeries,Directed reading, Career development meetings, visits to schoolsand participation in teaching and in wider classroom activities

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites

Excluded CombinationsGY2250

Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesReading items form the reading lists to build on lecture notes. Extending reading lists provided by reading beyond the readinglists in libraries and material sourced online. Planning witten reports and writing learning log. Meeting with other students onthe module to discuss their experiences at different school and finding common features and differences. Critically reviewingthe teaching career and considering how it would fit in with their career plans.

Lectures 2Seminars




Supervised time in studio/workshopWork Based Learning 30




GY2422 Geography of Education




001 Test 30 1.5002 Report 70




- explain the physical principles underlying remote sensing studies. This includes being able to define keyconcepts and terminology used in remote sensing such as electromagnetic radiation, surface reflectance and spectralreflectance curves;- associate the data that these sensors provide with an understanding of interactions of radiation with different surfacefeatures and geographical phenomena;- demonstrate their ability to manipulate satellite data using dedicated image-processing software. Make visual interpretationsof satellite images to support theory;- apply the principles of image acquisition and interpretation to making decisions on the appropriateness of the use ofremotely sensed data to address geographical issues in both human and physical environments.

Teaching and Learning MethodsLectures; Seminars; Computer Practical Classes; Independent Study

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesReading for seminars, reviewing lecture notes and following up on concepts with materials from Blackboard resources folderor independent searches for information, background reading for assignments









GY2424 Remote Sensing for Geographers




001 Coursework 50002 Coursework (Final) 50

Period: Semester 1Occurence: ACoordinator: Mark PowellMark Scheme: UG Pass for Credit



- analyse and critically evaluate geographical problems- adopt appropriate methodological strategies for the quantitative analysis of geographical data- interpret quantitative analyses of geographic data Coursework- write up quantitative analyses and interpretations of geographical data in a stylistically appropriate and concise manner

Teaching and Learning MethodsLectures, Worksheets, Practical Classes

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesWorksheets

Lectures 10Seminars








GY2431 Geographical Data Analysis




001 Lab Report 1 25002 Lab Report 2 30003 Lab Report 3 (Final) 45

Period: Semester 1Occurence: ACoordinator: Arnoud BoomMark Scheme: UG Pass for Credit



- Building on lab techniques undertaken in year 1, perform a wider and deeper range of analytical laboratory techniquesrelevant to soils, sedminents and water, such that independent laboratory analysis can be undertaken in subsequent projects/dissertations- Gain and understanding of, and practical experience in, implementing good pratice in the laboratory, key concepts ofaccuracy and precision and be able to apply basic assessments of these parameters to datagenerated in the laboratory- Handle datasets in Excel, creating appropriate graphs and tabulations as well as erforming basic statistical analyses (e.g.linear regression), building on learning outcomes from year 1- Critically evaluate laboratory results report- Write professional scientific reports to effectivly communicate results

Teaching and Learning MethodsDemonstration, Seminars, Lab work

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative Activitiesreading for preparation of laboratory excersises, reviewing/making deeper notes having followed up laboratory work,background reading for assignments, background practical work in laborary.




Guided Independent Study 130Demonstration 1





GY2432 Laboratory Techniques




001 Practical exercise 25002 Exam (Final) 75 2



Intended Learning OutcomesOn successful completion of the course, students should be able to:

- Describe the main components of the terrestrial water balance, along with common methods for their measurement, andexplain how these components interact with one another;- Critically evaluate the factors controlling hydrological response in river catchments with a range of different characteristics;- Describe the variety of fluvial forms;- Account for the variety of channel forms;- Critically evaluate the concepts of magnitude, frequency and equilibrium morphodynamics in understanding the developmentof fluvial landscapes

Teaching and Learning MethodsLectures, Fieldwork to the Lake District (Introduction to a River Catchment; Discussions and field experiments in catchmenthydrology, water quality and ecology), Independent study

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesWorksheets, Directed reading

Lectures 16Seminars








GY2433 Catchment Systems




001 Laboratory Report (Final) 50002 Group Poster Presentation 50

Period: Semester 1Occurence: ACoordinator: Juan BerrioMark Scheme: UG Pass for Credit



- demonstrate comprehension of basic ecosystem concepts and the role of the biosphere in the earth system (land surface-atmosphere interactions).- Describe how energy and nutrients flow through ecosystems.- Demonstrate knowledge of how abiotic and biotic factors impact on ecosystems, populations and species and evaluation ofecosystem diversity and functioning at a range of spatial scales.- Show an appreciation of the key drivers of global environmental change, including natural and anthropogenic drivers;appreciate how environmental remote sensing can be used to provide spatial and temporal information on both the biosphereand environmental change.- Learn how to run a simple ecological model.

Teaching and Learning MethodsLectures; Tutorials; Directed Reading; Laboratory Practical Classes; Oral presentations; Computer Practical Classes; FieldCourses;Independent Study

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesHandouts and assigned reading associated to series of tutorials will support students for successful CW submissions.Permanent support by lecturers and further reading materials are available on BB.

Lectures 19Seminars








GY2434 The Dynamic Biosphere




001 Group Fieldwork Poster 30002 Fieldwork Report 20003 Dissertation Research Proposal (Final) 50 40




- Identify research questions, critique the design of published work- Debate the philosophical foundations of research design- Design a research project- Develop teamworking skills- Critically assess work done by others

Teaching and Learning MethodsLectures; Tutorials; Directed Reading; Field Courses; Project Supervision.

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesDirected reading, statistical analyses, poster design, teamwork

Lectures 6Seminars


Fieldwork 54Project Supervision 4






GY2435 Geographical Research Design (Overseas Field Course)




001 Ice Core Practical Analysis 25002 Examination (Final) 75 1.5




- Describe the major global climatic shifts, trends and cycles during the Quaternary Period- Explain the basic principles underlying orbital (‘Milankovitch’) climate forcing and describe the evidence that supports thishypothesis- Explain how the Greenland and Antarctic provide records of global climatic changes and describe the main ‘internal’ driversof abrupt global climate change identified in these archives- Summarise the range of palaeo-environmental proxy data sources used by Quaternary scientists- Describe the principal geochronological techniques utilized in Quaternary science

Teaching and Learning MethodsBiweekly lectures, computer practical, laboratory practical1 x 2 hour computor practical (begin data analysis for CW1)1 x 2 hour laboratory practical/demonstration

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesReading materials provided in specific lecture reading lists, analysis and presentaiton of data provided from practical 1 (usedin coursework assessment), literature search and association reading required for intepretation of data analysed in CW1

Lectures 16Seminars








GY2436 Glacial Worlds




001 Essay/Report 50002 Examination (Final) 50 2

Period: Semester 1Occurence: ACoordinator: Caroline UptonMark Scheme: UG Pass for Credit



- Evaluate the multi- scalar challenges posed by transition to a more sustainable society- Analyse diverse aspects, meanings and practices of ‘transition’- Evaluate contested approaches to commons, land & property- Analyses and critique the concept of ‘neoliberal natures’ and contemporary valuation practices- Assess the role of diverse/indigenous knowledges in addressing environmental challenges

Teaching and Learning MethodsLectures, tutorials, seminars, fieldwork, films

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesReading for seminars; preparation and reading for assignments; key readings for lectures and note taking; preparation forfield visit









GY3411 Contemporary Environmental Challenges




001 Coursework: Project Progress Report (Midterm) 20002 Coursework: Topography Project (Final) 80




- Explain the relationships between place, place-making and economic markets- Utilise a (critical) topographic approach to examine marketplaces as affective, as well as material, social and discursiveassemblages- Interrogate the material-semiotics of place to analyse the geographical extent of a market- Engage a topographical analysis to articulate the intersections, interrelations and interdependances through which marketsbecome economic as well as geographical entities

Teaching and Learning MethodsLectures; Tutorials; Fieldwork; Directed Reading; Workshops; Independent Study

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesReading for seminars, reviewing/making deeper lecture notes having followed up reading, background reading forassignments, attending field site and analysiing data; may also include return visits to field site as individuals or as groups.

Lectures 18Seminars








GY3413 Geographies of the Market Place




001 Essay 40002 Individual Project 60




- describe the development (and historical context) of different intellectual traditions of thinking about geopolitics- explain the difference between formal geopolitics, practical geopolitics, and popular geopolitics- describe and explain key conceptual approaches associated with critical and feminist geopolitics- apply critical geopolitical concepts to analyse a historical case study associated with the Cold War and/or decolonization- apply critical geopolitical concepts to analyse one or more contemporary international case studies

Teaching and Learning MethodsLectures; seminars and workshops, surgeries; directed reading; virtual learning environment.

Assessment Methods

Pre-RequisitesGY2416

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative Activitiesreading for lectures and seminars; reviewing/making deeper lecture notes having followed up reading, background reading forassessments; secondary research for individual project









GY3414 Critical Geopolitics




001 Presentation 40002 Exam 60 2




- Demonstrate an understanding of contemporary migrations within historical contexts of human migration and socio-spatialchange.- Demonstrate critical understanding of different forms of forced and voluntary migration across the globe.- Critically appreciate super-diversity and its implications for place and identity.- Demonstrate an appreciation of theories and concepts used to understand how people live and experience ethnic diversity indifferent places and spaces.- Generate focused and comprehensive written and oral presentations.

Teaching and Learning MethodsTeaching will be in the form of lectures (2 hours per week) and seminars. The seminars will take place in the second part ofthe semester and will involve student presentations.

Assessment MethodsPresentation (40%)Exam (60%)


Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesReading in preparation for seminars; Wider reading around lecture material; Preparation of assessed presentation andpreparation for exams.









GY3415 Migration, Place and Diversity




001 Essay 50002 Exam (Final) 50 2

Period: Semester 2Occurence: ACoordinator: Clare MadgeMark Scheme: UG Pass for Credit



- traverse between totalising narratives of the African continent (Africa as the Dark continent/Africa rising) to develop a morenuanced understanding of the complexity and diversity of African nations and peoples, as well as the interconnections andstasis between Africa and other parts of the world;- use postcolonial perspectives to critically evaluate popular images, knowledges and discourses about Africa in order tounderstand the power of representations and to create a more nuanced and historically-informed understanding of thecontinent;- use detailed case study examples to apply a postcolonial approach to a range of contemporary development issuesincluding: indigenous food production and adapting to food shortage; information andcommunication technologies and rural development; and various other contemporary examples.- gain an understanding of some of some key thinkers in the field, including geographers’ contribution to postcolonial thinking.

Teaching and Learning MethodsLectures: Tutorials; Seminars; Directed Reading; Independent Research; Independent Study

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesReading for seminars, reading in support of lecture material, reviewing/making deeper lecture notes having followed upreading, background reading for assignments, searching news sources for up-to-date information on contemporary issues ofAfrican development.









GY3416 Postcolonial perspectives in/of Africa




001 Fieldwork Report 50002 Coursework Essay (Final) 50

Period: Semester 2Occurence: ACoordinator: Martin PhillipsMark Scheme: UG Pass for Credit



- Outline and discuss critical, symbolic and affective approaches to understanding rural geographies;- Apply these approaches to the analysis of developments in rural spaces in the UK and elsewhere- Construct theoretical, analytical and creative accounts of field observations and secondary data on a contemporary aspect ofrural life.

Teaching and Learning MethodsLectures; Seminars; Field Course

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesReviewing/making deeper lecture notes having followed up reading; background reading for seminars and assignments;analysis of film, television and magazine imagery, programmes; analysis of secondary data sources and reports; reflection onpersonal experiences of countryside and fieldcourse observations & experiences.









GY3417 Critical, symbolic and emotional rural geographies




001 Research Proposal 15002 Blog 25003 Written Report (Final) 60004 Extended Written Report (Final) 100 Y




- critically evaluate different ways of theorizing geopolitics; research proposal;- critically evaluate different ways of theorizing urban space; blog; research proposal;- critically evaluate different creative and intellectual 'ways of seeing' the cityscapes of Berlin, and assess their relevance forexamining questions of geopolitics- analyse different perspectives concerning the 'place' of geopolitics in shaping the contemporary social, cultural, political andeconomic geographies of Berlin

Teaching and Learning MethodsLectures; surgeries; directed reading; fieldcourses and visits; project supervision; independent research; virtual learningenvironment.

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative Activitiesreading for lectures; reviewing/making deeper lecture notes having followed up reading, background reading for assessments.

Lectures 6Seminars








GY3418 Berlin Fieldcourse: Tracing Geopolitics in Urban Space




001 Dissertation (Final) 100

Period: Semester 1Occurence: ACoordinator: Mick WhelanMark Scheme: UG Pass for Credit



- Conduct independent, self-motivated geographical research- Combine and analyse relevant empirical and theoretcical data on a geographical topic- Produce a coherent argument towards a balanced conclusion within a multi-sectioned piece of work- Discuss in a self-critical and reflexive manner the limitations and constraints of particular research activities

Teaching and Learning MethodsLecture; Project Supervision; Independent Research; Independent Study

Assessment Methods

Pre-RequisitesPass in GY2435 or GY2414

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesPhysical or Human Geography Fieldwork; Laboratory, Statistical or Interview Analyses; Mapping/visualisation

Lectures 2Seminars








GY3420 Dissertation




004 Coursework 100

Period: Semester 2Occurence: ACoordinator: Stefano De SabbataMark Scheme: UG Pass for Credit



- Explain and discuss fundamental concepts related to visual perception and representation, including but not limited to:symbol, glyph, visual variables, dimensionality, models of phenomena, graphical integrity and distortion, data ink, visualhierarchy- Explain and discuss fundamental concepts related to cartography, including but not limited to: map elements, projection,normalization, classification, choroplet mapping, proportional symbols mapping, dotmapping- Describe advantages and issues of main visualization methods, and identify an appropriate visualization method for anygiven case- Apply the visualization design process to create effective visualizations- Use software tools (e.g., R, Excel, Illustrator, QGIS) to create effective visualizations

Teaching and Learning MethodsLectures, Practical Classes and Workshops (computer-based exercises)

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesThe students will be presented with three (non-mandatory) formative assignments, that will guide them through a visualizationdesign process. A first assignment will require the identification of a topic and research question. A second assignment willfocus on retrieving appropriate data for the selected topic, and conduct an analysis of the collected data (not necessarily usingstatistical tools). A third assignment will require to create a draft of a visualization based on the analysis conducted for thesecond assignment. The materials produced for the formative assignment can (but not necessarily have to) be used as basefor the summative assignment.

Background reading on the topics discussed during lectures and practicals will be provided.

Lectures 9Seminars








GY3421 Information Visualisation




001 Essay 50002 Project (Final) 50

Period: Semester 2Occurence: ACoordinator: Claire JarvisMark Scheme: UG Pass for Credit



- Apply the theory of basic GIS operators and analytical approaches to a variety of geographical data and problems- Outline, explain and critically evaluate a variety of spatial data analysis techniques with reference to a number ofgeographical examples- Negotiate the steps involved in a GIS analysis of real data

Teaching and Learning MethodsLectures, Computer Practical Classes, Essay, Project

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites

Excluded CombinationsGY2421

Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesReading; Computer analyses; Mapping

Lectures 10Seminars








GY3422 Geographical Information Science




001 Test 30 1002 Report 70




- explain the physical principles underlying remote sensing studies. This includes being able to define and explain keyconcepts and terminology used in remote sensing such as electromagnetic radiation, surface reflectance and spectralreflectance curves;- describe the characteristics of current satellite sensors and associate the data that these sensors provide with anunderstanding of interactions of radiation with different surface features and geographical phenomena;- demonstrate their ability to manipulate satellite data using dedicated image-processing software. Make visual interpretationsof satellite images to support theory;- apply the principles of image acquisition and interpretation to making decisions on the appropriateness of the use ofremotely sensed data to address geographical issues in both human and physical environments.

Teaching and Learning MethodsLectures; Seminars; Computer Practical Classes; Independent Study

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesReading for seminars, reviewing lecture notes and following up on concepts with materials from Blackboard resources folderor independent searches for information, background reading for assignments









GY3424 Remote Sensing for Geographers




001 Presentation on the "Digital Turn" 50002 Examination (Final) 50 2

Period: Semester 1Occurence: ACoordinator: Claire JarvisMark Scheme: UG Pass for Credit



- Critically review emergent spatially-enabled/enabling digital technologies- Robustly communicate and debate contemporary critical debates in the within the 'digital turn' such as the dark web, 'smart'cities and the Internet of things, augmented reality and privacy- Reflect on the map as a communication medium over history, digital or otherwise. looking through both cartesian and non-cartesian lenses- Detail the progress and achievements of critical cartographies and critical GIS over the past twenty years

Teaching and Learning MethodsTeaching will be in the form of lectures (1 hours per week) and seminars (7 weeks, 2 hours each). The seminars will becomprised of individual student presentations: analytical case studies of various aspects of the 'digital turn'

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesGuided reading









GY3425 Critical Digital Geographies




001 Research Paper 60002 Journal Paper 40

Period: Semester 2Occurence: ACoordinator: Nicholas TateMark Scheme: UG Pass for Credit



1. Exemplify the formal processes of turning your individual research dissertation work into a journal paper 2. Negotiate theprocess of peer review and editorial selection of papers3. Be able to work efficiently, manage your own study time andcomplete work to deadlines

Teaching and Learning MethodsStudents act as authors, referees and editors of an academic journal. Each student will produce a research paper derivedfrom their dissertation research. Submitted papers are given to other students to referee. The referees respond with a shortreview detailing errors and corrections, or acceptance to the journal. The referee reviews are then reviewed by a student-lededitorial board. The aim is to produce an edited volume 'Progress and Place: A journal fo Undergraduate Human Geography.

Assessment Methods


Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesPeer review your colleagues journal papers; Undertake editorial work to make coherent journal volumes from your collectivepapers; Individual editorial and summary work on the text from your dissertations.

Lectures 1Seminars








GY3426 Dissertation: Preparing for Publication




001 Landscape Mapping Exercise 20002 Landscape Interpretation Exercise 30003 Essay (Final) 50004 Executive Report on Alluvial Flood Hazards 50 Y005 Essay (Final) 50 Y




- explain the dynamics of processes operating in drylands and their morphological consequences;- appreciate the linkages between process domains in drylands;- show an awareness of the role of climatic and environmental change in fashioning the current geomorphology of presentdaydrylands

Teaching and Learning MethodsLectures, Fieldwork, Independent study

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesDirected reading,









GY3430 Californian Drylands




001 Field Report No.1 50002 Field Report No.2 (Final) 50

Period: Semester 1Occurence: ACoordinator: Juan BerrioMark Scheme: UG Pass for Credit



- discuss the different types of tropical rainforest environments;- evaluate traditional land use methods and their impact on the natural environment;- widen further knowledge in Amazonian rainforests structure and composition;- evaluate tree species distribution in different forest types;- undertake various aspects of practical biogeographic field work in the neotropics: e.g. vegetation surveys, sedimentcollection, water and soil sampling

Teaching and Learning MethodsLectures; Tutorials; Field Work; Independent Study

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesStudents will revise revelant literarure sources (peer-reviewed research papers and academic books) to further analyse,contrast and compared any gathered data in the field against published research outcomes. A particular focus in to identifiyingpatterns of vegetation distribution, vegetation structure, Above Ground Biomass has to be researched in a wider regionalcontext of Amazonian rainforests. Additionally, students need to investigate about the role of soils and climate as main drivingforces determining the diversity of ecosystems with Neotropical Rainforests. The role of local indigenous communities inshaping particular vegetation communities also has to be investigated.

Lectures 2Seminars








GY3431 Neotropical Rainforests




001 Popular Science Article 25002 Policy Report 75

Period: Semester 1Occurence: ACoordinator: Susan PageMark Scheme: UG Pass for Credit



- Explain the greenhouse effect and the role of humans in the climate system- Explain the role of the IPCC in assessing scientific, technical and socio-economic information relevant to understanding thescientific basis of risk of human-induced climate change, its potential impacts and options for adaptation and mitigation- Describe how selected regions and ecosystems are likely to be affected by climate change up until 2100, includingidentification of the major processes and vulnerabilities- Interpret recent scientific studies on climate change impacts in the broader context and demonstrate an ability to writescientifical material aimed at different audiences (popular and professional)Access, analyse and summarise climate data and assess vulnerabilities and likely adaptation and mitigation options

Teaching and Learning MethodsLectures, seminars, tutorials, coursework clinics, computer simulation exercise, guest lectures

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesReading, assessing different approaches to science writing, understanding what is required of a policy report, assessinggovernment and policy papers, assessing IPCC outputs.









GY3432 Climate Change: Impacts, Vulnerability and Adaptation




001 Report 50002 Examination (Final) 50 2

Period: Semester 1Occurence: ACoordinator:Mark Scheme: UG Pass for Credit



- Explain the causes behind major millenial and Milankovitch scale climatic shifts- Critically evaluate the roles of internal and external drivers of climate change- Evaluate paleo-environmental proxy data sources employed in the Quaternary- Describe the main geochronical tools- Explain late Quaternary climatic records preseved in low latitudes

Teaching and Learning MethodsLectures; Directed reading; Laboratory Classes; Computer practical Classes; Independent Study

Assessment Methods


Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesDirected Reading

Lectures 17Seminars








GY3433 Quaternary Environmental Change




001 Report 50002 Exam (Final) 50 2

Period: Semester 2Occurence: ACoordinator: Arnoud BoomMark Scheme: UG Pass for Credit



- Explain the theory of stable isotope fractionation using appropriate terminology and scientific principles- Collect, prepare and anayse samples for stable isotope analyses- Analyse and discuss stable isotopic datasets- Write scientific journal article- Understand isotope fractionation in environmental processes

Teaching and Learning MethodsLecturesSeminarsLaboratory practicals/ demonstration

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesReading for lectures, reviewing/making deeper lecture notes having followed up reading, background laboratory work,supporting reading for course work.




Guided Independent Study 125Demonstration 1





GY3434 Stable Isotopes in the Environment




001 Water Quality Monitoring Assignment 50002 Examination (Final) 50 1.5

Period: Semester 2Occurence: ACoordinator: Mick WhelanMark Scheme: UG Pass for Credit



- Demonstrate an understanding of the processes controlling surface and groundwater quality – particularly when thesesystems receive point- and diffuse-source pollution.- Demonstrate an awareness of water quality standards for different water uses (e.g. drinking water, ecological quality) and ofthe legal frameworks within which such standards are applied.- Design appropriate water quality sampling strategies, select sample locations, take samples correctly, conduct standardtests and evaluate the results.- Identify appropriate management strategies which can be applied to different pollutant types and demonstrate anunderstanding of why different approaches are required for different pollutants

Teaching and Learning MethodsThe bulk of teaching will be through the medium of lectures. Additionally, there will be one 1-day field excursion (waste watertreatment plant and sustainable urban drainage), one ½ day (4 hour) sampling trip and one ½ day (3 hour) laboratory practicalclass for analysis of samples in the laboratory (3 hours).

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesReading selected from distributed list and supplemented with additional material.Course work will require some independent investigative work using maps and web-based literature, as well as accessing theprimary literature.Students will also need to spend time revising for the examination.

Lectures 14Seminars








GY3435 Water Quality Processes and Management




001 Group Presentation Case Study Material for Seminars 25002 Exam (Final) 75 2




- Account, in terms of specific climatic drivers, for the distribution of arid lands across the African continent and illustrate howthis distribution may have changed through time- Describe and account for the distribution of key African dryland biomes, specifically: Grassland/Savanna, Nama Karoo andFynbos- Explain the functioning of the C and N nutrient cycles in drylands and illustrate how their functioning may be altered underconditions of extreme aridity- Illustrate the geomorphological distinctiveness of dryland regions using cases studies from African landscapes andlandscape histories- Explain how humans (may) have affected ecosystems in dryland regions in both pre and post-colonial times

Teaching and Learning MethodsBiweekly lectures 3 x 1 hour seminars led by stundent groups to provide selected case studies and discussion to will supportsynthesis of key climate/ecology/landscape concepts Presentation materials will be assessed

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesIndependent reading for each lecture based on detailed reading lists provided; reading, synthesis and preparation of casestudy materials (provision of notes for the group) for student-led seminars









GY3436 African Drylands




001 Written Practical Report 75002 Exam (Final) 25 1




- Relate certain types of biosphere-atmosphere interactions to particular biomes- Evaluate the role of different drivers of biospheric processes- Explain a range of feedbacks between the biosphere and other components of the Earth system- Evaluate the role of atmosphere-biosphere interactions in the climate system- Explain the role of carbon dioxide and photosynthesis in biosphereatmosphere interactions

Teaching and Learning MethodsLectures, Seminars, Laboratory and computer Practical Classes, Surgeries, Directed Reading, Field Visits, IndependentResearch; Independent Study

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesDirected reading, project supervision, problems









GY3437 The Biosphere in the Earth System




001 Coursework Portfolio 100




- explain the dynamics of fluvial processes operating in alluvial rivers and their morphological and sedimentologicalconsequences;- define flow resistance and its various sources and apply simple flow resistance models to estimate hydraulic parameters;- critically evaluate models of bedload sediment transport; describe factors controlling the processes and rates of bankerosion;- explain some how feedbacks between the form of the channel, the bed of the channel and the flow within the channel govenchannel evolution and change

Teaching and Learning MethodsLectures, Workshops, Independent study

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesGuided reading, numerical analyses

Lectures 16Seminars








GY3438 River Dynamics




001 Literature Review 50002 Data Analysis and Write Up 50




Understand the role that tropical forests in SE Asia play in the physical environment (such as the carbon cycle) and in thehuman social environment (development and livelihood)- Gain experience using some of the tools that are available to observe, measure and understand processes that exist in thetropical forests of SE Asia- Understand the influence of geographical research on policy and development issues in the region

Teaching and Learning MethodsLectures, seminars, tutorials, computer based practicals

Assessment Methods

Pre-Requisites

Co-Requisites


Guided Independent Study: Indicative ActivitiesReading, Literature review, satellite image processing









GY3439 Understanding the tropical forests of SE Asia




001 Successful completion of Year Abroad 100

Period: Academic YearOccurence: ACoordinator:Mark Scheme: UG Grade Only


LecturesSeminars



Guided Independent StudyDemonstration



Total Module Hours


GY3930 Year Abroad


Documents

Module Specification · 2020. 9. 14. · Module Specification No. Assessment Description Weight % Qual Mark Exam Hours Ass't Group Alt Reass't 001 Essay 50 002 Presentation (Final)