Overview

This module allows the student to undertake a desk-based research project looking in depth at a current environmental or related issue. The module runs in Semester 1 and culminates in the production of a written project report and a seminar. The issues are chosen by the student to reflect his/her interests and can range from local issues through to global issues. The range of 'popular' current issues will be investigated by individual students. Sources such as tabloid and broadsheet daily and Sunday newspapers, broadcast media, the internet, 'popular' scientific journals and the more rigorously refereed scientific journals should be consulted. The topic should be different from that chosen in the student's experimental research project. Topics should be selected in consultation with the module organizer. The module involves student-led research into a specific topic. Apart from an introductory lecture, and a mid-module lecture question-and-answer session/lecture, there are no formal lectures or practicals associated with this module. At the end of Semester 1, each student will present their topic in the form of a 15 minute interview and will submit a project report on their chosen topic. Both the interview and project report elements will be assessed.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -Grade D- to D+Aware of the key principles underlying the science. Pass level in specialist essays. Basic competence demonstrated in interview.

-good -Grade C- to B+Better understanding of the principles. Competent demonstration of the understanding and use of data in specialist reports. Rapid progression through topics in interview. A deep knowledge of a specific environmental or related issue and a thorough understanding of material.

-excellent -Grade A- to A**Very good understanding of the science. High level of competence demonstrated in understanding current environmental or related issues. Evidence of considerable effort and thought and effective use of background material to support cases.

Learning Outcomes

• Students will gain experience in being interviewed.

• Successful students will typically be able to apply technology in the use of standard computer software (Web databases, MS-Powerpoint, MS-Word) for searching databases and producing reports.

• Successful students will typically be able to appreciate associated environmental issues and be able to stimulate scientific debate.

• Successful students will typically be able to critically evaluate the arguments associated with a specific scientific issue.

• Successful students will typically be able to study and critique a range of scientific literature and explain and illustrate the specific aspects of their chosen topic.

• Successful students will typically be able to understand how this issue is perceived by the media.