Overview

The aim of this first-year field course is to provide a broad overview of physical and human processes associated with both productive and protection forests in Hunan province. Students will be provided with practical field experience to explore intersecting processes of landscape formation at a range of spatial and temporal scales. This course will enable students to make connections between theory and fieldwork to develop interdisciplinary thinking in relation to environmental issues

This module combines lectures and fieldwork to provide a broad overview of productive and protection forests in Hunan province. The module focuses on the five key themes of Geology, Ecology, Forestry, Agriculture and Society.

Lectures provide a broad overview of the topics and introduce relevant theoretical and conceptual points. The main areas covered will include: underlying principles of geology, watersheds and soil formation; forest ecology and dendrology through lessons in silvicultural techniques in Chinese forestry and plant identification; political history of community, private and state forestry in relation to the history of human habitation and resource use. Students will be taken to key sites that demonstrate how these processes interact and relate to particular places

Assessment Strategy

Threshold (Grade D- to C+) The student displays a basic understanding of the principles and basic knowledge of subject. Relevant information is discussed to basic depth the written assignment and tasks. 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.

Good (Grade B- to B+) The student displays sound knowledge of subject, ability to contribute constructively to debate, ability to write perceptive and well-argued reports. Descriptively presents information in the written assignment and tasks.

Excellent (Grade A- to A*) 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 an ability to critically analyse and evaluate relevant information. A clear, concise, descriptive style of presentation in the written assignment and tasks.

Learning Outcomes

• Understand the key industrial, ecological, and geological processes that underlie forestry in Hunan province.

• Appreciate how different landscape processes interact over a range of spatial and temporal scales.

• Demonstrate a critical and analytical attitude to the natural and managed environment.

• Interpret key landscape features in relation to relevant theories and methods.