Overview

The field course involves field visits and student-led research activities focused on a range of geographical themes. The activities will focus on developing subject knowledge and also transferable field and research skills. The course will involve summatively and formatively assessed group work as well as individually-authored assessment.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -Grade D- (42%) to D+ (48%): The student displays a basic understanding of the principles and basic knowledge of subject. Relevant information is presented to a basic depth. Most of the key issues are identified but there may be some omissions or gaps in understanding. Links between theory and practice are not well developed.

-Grade C- (52%) to C+ (58%): The student displays an adequate understanding of the principles and basic knowledge of subject. Relevant information is accurately presented but there may be omissions and/or a lack of depth in certain areas. Links between theory and practice are made, however in general there is a lack of criticality in the work presented.

-good -Grade B- (62%) to B+ (68%): The student displays sound knowledge of subject, and an ability to use both field observation and published information to produce perceptive and well-structured arguments. Clear presentation of information with some critical thinking.

-excellent -Grade A- (74%) and above: The student demonstrates comprehensive knowledge of subject and clear ability to pull together various elements of the course material. Evidence of background reading. There are no major areas omitted and the student demonstrates a strong ability to critically analyse and evaluate relevant information. A clear, concise, descriptive style of presentation in the work presented.

Learning Outcomes

• A practical understanding of field-based research methods in human and physical geography.

• Appreciate the reciprocal relationships between natural and human environments.

• Be able to exemplify and assess the impacts of earth resource exploitation on physical and social environments.

• Demonstrate a critical and analytical understanding of geographical processes occurring in human and physical environments.