CY

Modules for course F802 | BSC/GEOGIE
BSc Geography (with International Experience)

This is a provisional list of modules to be offered on this course in the 2019–20 academic year.

The list may not be complete, and the final course content may be different.

You can also view the modules offered in the years: 2017–18; 2018–19.

Use the buttons after the module titles (where available) to see a brief description of the content, or:
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Year 1 Modules

Compulsory Modules

Semester 1

  • ONS-1001: Environmental data & analysis (20)
    This module, unlike most others, concentrates on giving the student the basic literature searching, numerical and statistical skills required for pursuing the rest of their respective programmes of study. The course relies heavily on computer-based material and so the student also learns how to use and evaluate on-line information, as well as how to converse, discuss and learn via the Blackboard software package. The course starts with an introduction to the Information Literacy Cycle, issues of plagiarism and how to avoid it, and good practice for citing and referencing. Thereafter, the course concentrates on key aspects of any science degree. Lectures introduced include: distributions of populations within scientific data; ideas of probability; unit systems used within science; accuracy and precision; algebraic manipulation; graphing linear systems; and coping with non-linearity in natural systems. Included as part of this will be an introduction to the use of excel and powerpoint - two software packages which are almost essential in the life of an undergraduate student. Following these mainly numerically-related lectures, the module focuses on the scientific method, hypothesis setting and testing; these leading to the fundamental ideas concerning experimental design. These concepts then extend to discussing the importance of replication in scientific datasets. Finally, an introduction to specific statistical tests (parametric and non-parametric) is presented. Library searching and referencing Introduction to distributions within scientific data Ideas of probability Description of distributions Preamble to MS Excel On-line exercises Presentation with MS Powerpoint Unit systems used in science Accuracy & precision. How many decimal places? Introduction to algebraic manipulation Graphing of linear systems Coping with non-linearity in nature (logs etc.) The scientific method: hypothesis setting and testing Introduction to experimental design The importance of replication in scientific datasets Examples of statistical tests: parametric versus non-parametric Regression and correlation ANOVA
    or
    ONC-1001: Dadansoddi Data Amgylcheddol (20)
    Mae'r modiwl hwn, yn wahanol i'r rhan fwyaf o fodiwlau eraill, yn canolbwyntio ar roi i'r myfyrwyr y sgiliau chwilio, rhifyddol ac ystadegol sylfaenol sydd eu hangen i ddilyn gweddill eu rhaglenni astudio. Mae'r cwrs yn dibynnu'n drwm ar ddeunydd cyfrifiadurol ac felly mae'r myfyriwr yn dysgu hefyd sut i ddefnyddio a gwerthuso gwybodaeth ar-lein yn ogystal â sut i sgwrsio, trafod a dysgu trwy gyfrwng pecyn meddalwedd Blackboard. Mae'r cwrs yn dechrau gyda chyflwyniad byr i system gyfrifiadurol y Brifysgol ( yn ystod yr Wythnos Groeso) ac yna'n symud ymlaen yn yr wythnos gyntaf i drafod rôl llenyddiaeth a thechnegau chwilio llenyddiaeth yn eu hastudiaethau yn y dyfodol. Ar ôl hynny, mae'r cwrs yn canolbwyntio ar agweddau allweddol unrhyw radd gwyddoniaeth. Mae'r darlithoedd a gyflwynir yn cynnwys: dosbarthiadau poblogaethau o fewn data gwyddonol; cysyniadau tebygolrwydd; systemau unedau a ddefnyddir mewn gwyddoniaeth; manwl gywirdeb; cyfrifiadau algebraig; rhyngberthnasau trigonometrig; gosod systemau llinol ar ffurf graff; ac ymdopi ag anflinoledd mewn systemau naturiol. Fel rhan o hyn ceir cyflwyniad i'r defnydd o Excel a Powerpoint - dau becyn meddalwedd sydd yn hanfodol bwysig i fywyd myfyriwr israddedig. Yn dilyn y darlithoedd hyn sydd yn ymwneud yn bennaf â rhifyddeg, mae'r modiwl yn canolbwyntio ar y dull gwyddonol, pennu a phrofi damcaniaethau; gan arwain at syniadau sylfaenol ynghylch cynllunio arbrofol. Yna mae'r cysyniadau hyn yn ymestyn i drafod pwysigrwydd dyblygu mewn setiau data gwyddonol. Yn olaf rhoddir cyflwyniad i brofion ystadegol penodol (parametrig ac anbarametrig). Llythrennedd gwybodaeth Gosod systemau llinol ar ffurf graff MS Excel Systemau unedau a ddefnyddir mewn gwyddoniaeth Manwl gywirdeb Cyflwyniad i ddosbarthiadau o fewn data gwyddonol Disgrifiad o ddosbarthiadau Cysyniadau tebygolrwydd Y dull gwyddonol: pennu a phrofi damcaniaethau Cyflwyniad gyda MS Powerpoint Cyflwyniad i gyfrifiadau algebraig Rhyngberthnasau trigonometrig Ymdopi ag aflinoledd ym myd natur; Cyflwyniad i ddylunio arbrofol Pwysigrwydd dyblygu mewn setiau data gwyddonol Enghreifftiau o brofion ystadegol; parametrig vs amharametrig Atchweliad a chydberthyniad Cyfraddau newid: gwahaniaethu Cyflwyniad i ddadansoddiad amlamrywedd
  • DXX-1004: Human Geography (20)
    This module provides an introduction to Geographical thinking including some of following concepts: globalisation; space and place; people and the environment; urbanisation; identity and difference; population; migration; sustainability. Consideration is given of the broad and integrated relationship between people and place and their socio economic, political, cultural and natural environment.
  • DXX-1005: Earth Systems and Processes (20)
    Key module topics will include: 1. Earth systems and earth processes: introduction and key concepts 2. The Geosphere: key geological concepts and processes. 3. Weathering processes 4. The atmosphere: global and regional atmospheric circulation 5. Atmosphere-Ocean interaction: influence on climate, ENSO & NAO cycles & cyclones 6. The hydrosphere: introduction to the hydrological cycle, run-off generation & basic principles of hydrology. 7. Glacial environments: introduction to ice-mass description, ice mass movement and glacial geomorphology. 8. The biosphere: introduction to soils 9. The biosphere: introduction to biogeography 10. Introduction to global biogeochemical cycles: the Carbon and Nitrogen Cycles.
  • DXX-1006: Field Course: Making Snowdonia (20)
    This module combines lectures and fieldwork to provide a broad overview of the processes that have given rise to the distinctive features of the Snowdonian landscape. 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 geology; glaciation; post-glacial ecology; soil formation; political history of community, private and state forestry; history of human habitation and resource use; the formation and development of the national park. Students will be taken to key sites that demonstrate how these processes interact and relate to particular places.
    or
    DXC-1006: Gwaith Maes: Creu Eryri (20)
    Bydd y modiwl hwn yn cyfuno darlithoedd a gwaith maes i roi trosolwg bras ar y prosesau sydd wedi creu nodweddion arbennig tirwedd Eryri. Bydd y modiwl yn canolbwyntio ar bum brif thema, sef daeareg, ecoleg, coedwigaeth, amaeth a chymdeithas. Bydd y darlithoedd yn rhoi trosolwg bras ar y pynciau ac yn cyflwyno pwyntiau damcaniaethol a chysyniadol perthnasol. Y prif feysydd dan sylw fydd: daeareg waelodol; rhewlifiant; ecoleg ôl-rewlifol; ffurfio pridd; hanes gwleidyddol y gymuned; coedwigaeth breifat a choedwigaeth y wladwriaeth; hanes preswyliad dynol a defnydd adnoddau; hanes ffurfio a datblygu’r parc cenedlaethol. Bydd myfyrwyr yn cael eu hebrwng i safleoedd allweddol sy’n dangos sut y mae’r prosesau hyn yn rhyngweithio ac yn berthnasol i leoedd penodol.

Semester 2

  • ONS-1001: Environmental data & analysis
    This module, unlike most others, concentrates on giving the student the basic literature searching, numerical and statistical skills required for pursuing the rest of their respective programmes of study. The course relies heavily on computer-based material and so the student also learns how to use and evaluate on-line information, as well as how to converse, discuss and learn via the Blackboard software package. The course starts with an introduction to the Information Literacy Cycle, issues of plagiarism and how to avoid it, and good practice for citing and referencing. Thereafter, the course concentrates on key aspects of any science degree. Lectures introduced include: distributions of populations within scientific data; ideas of probability; unit systems used within science; accuracy and precision; algebraic manipulation; graphing linear systems; and coping with non-linearity in natural systems. Included as part of this will be an introduction to the use of excel and powerpoint - two software packages which are almost essential in the life of an undergraduate student. Following these mainly numerically-related lectures, the module focuses on the scientific method, hypothesis setting and testing; these leading to the fundamental ideas concerning experimental design. These concepts then extend to discussing the importance of replication in scientific datasets. Finally, an introduction to specific statistical tests (parametric and non-parametric) is presented. Library searching and referencing Introduction to distributions within scientific data Ideas of probability Description of distributions Preamble to MS Excel On-line exercises Presentation with MS Powerpoint Unit systems used in science Accuracy & precision. How many decimal places? Introduction to algebraic manipulation Graphing of linear systems Coping with non-linearity in nature (logs etc.) The scientific method: hypothesis setting and testing Introduction to experimental design The importance of replication in scientific datasets Examples of statistical tests: parametric versus non-parametric Regression and correlation ANOVA
    or
    ONC-1001: Dadansoddi Data Amgylcheddol
    Mae'r modiwl hwn, yn wahanol i'r rhan fwyaf o fodiwlau eraill, yn canolbwyntio ar roi i'r myfyrwyr y sgiliau chwilio, rhifyddol ac ystadegol sylfaenol sydd eu hangen i ddilyn gweddill eu rhaglenni astudio. Mae'r cwrs yn dibynnu'n drwm ar ddeunydd cyfrifiadurol ac felly mae'r myfyriwr yn dysgu hefyd sut i ddefnyddio a gwerthuso gwybodaeth ar-lein yn ogystal â sut i sgwrsio, trafod a dysgu trwy gyfrwng pecyn meddalwedd Blackboard. Mae'r cwrs yn dechrau gyda chyflwyniad byr i system gyfrifiadurol y Brifysgol ( yn ystod yr Wythnos Groeso) ac yna'n symud ymlaen yn yr wythnos gyntaf i drafod rôl llenyddiaeth a thechnegau chwilio llenyddiaeth yn eu hastudiaethau yn y dyfodol. Ar ôl hynny, mae'r cwrs yn canolbwyntio ar agweddau allweddol unrhyw radd gwyddoniaeth. Mae'r darlithoedd a gyflwynir yn cynnwys: dosbarthiadau poblogaethau o fewn data gwyddonol; cysyniadau tebygolrwydd; systemau unedau a ddefnyddir mewn gwyddoniaeth; manwl gywirdeb; cyfrifiadau algebraig; rhyngberthnasau trigonometrig; gosod systemau llinol ar ffurf graff; ac ymdopi ag anflinoledd mewn systemau naturiol. Fel rhan o hyn ceir cyflwyniad i'r defnydd o Excel a Powerpoint - dau becyn meddalwedd sydd yn hanfodol bwysig i fywyd myfyriwr israddedig. Yn dilyn y darlithoedd hyn sydd yn ymwneud yn bennaf â rhifyddeg, mae'r modiwl yn canolbwyntio ar y dull gwyddonol, pennu a phrofi damcaniaethau; gan arwain at syniadau sylfaenol ynghylch cynllunio arbrofol. Yna mae'r cysyniadau hyn yn ymestyn i drafod pwysigrwydd dyblygu mewn setiau data gwyddonol. Yn olaf rhoddir cyflwyniad i brofion ystadegol penodol (parametrig ac anbarametrig). Llythrennedd gwybodaeth Gosod systemau llinol ar ffurf graff MS Excel Systemau unedau a ddefnyddir mewn gwyddoniaeth Manwl gywirdeb Cyflwyniad i ddosbarthiadau o fewn data gwyddonol Disgrifiad o ddosbarthiadau Cysyniadau tebygolrwydd Y dull gwyddonol: pennu a phrofi damcaniaethau Cyflwyniad gyda MS Powerpoint Cyflwyniad i gyfrifiadau algebraig Rhyngberthnasau trigonometrig Ymdopi ag aflinoledd ym myd natur; Cyflwyniad i ddylunio arbrofol Pwysigrwydd dyblygu mewn setiau data gwyddonol Enghreifftiau o brofion ystadegol; parametrig vs amharametrig Atchweliad a chydberthyniad Cyfraddau newid: gwahaniaethu Cyflwyniad i ddadansoddiad amlamrywedd
  • OSX-1003: Earth, Climate & Evolution (20)
    An exploration of environmental change, including climate change, and its impacts on biological evolution on geological time scales. This includes an introduction to the geological tools and techniques used to decipher and interpret the geological and fossil records. It examines how the earth works: tectonics, climate, the sedimentary cycle, sea level change. The climate system (inputs, budgets), climate change (external forcings, feedback), global cooling and warming. Major events in earth history: e.g. its origin, the origin of life, evolution of bacteria and multicellular organisms, significant biological changes from the late Precambrian to the Quaternary, major climate and eustatic events in geological history, etc. There is emphasis on Quaternary changes - climatic cycles and anthropogenic impacts - since these still resonate in the present day environment. Global climate modelling including hindcasting and prediction.
  • DXX-1004: Human Geography
    This module provides an introduction to Geographical thinking including some of following concepts: globalisation; space and place; people and the environment; urbanisation; identity and difference; population; migration; sustainability. Consideration is given of the broad and integrated relationship between people and place and their socio economic, political, cultural and natural environment.

20 credits from:

  • DXC-1000: Tiwt Acad.&Sgiliau Allweddol (10) (Semester 1)
    Mae fframwaith y modiwl hwn yn debyg i ddau fodiwl cyffelyb mewn dwy ysgol arall sy'n rhan o'r Coleg Gwyddorau Naturiol (h.y. Ysgol Gwyddorau’r Eigion a'r Ysgol Gwyddorau Biolegol) ac mae’r dulliau asesu’n debyg. Yn ystod yr wythnos groeso (h.y. wythnos 0 y flwyddyn gyntaf), bydd y myfyrwyr a’u tiwtor yn cwrdd, ac yn trefnu 5 sesiwn diwtorial wedi eu dosbarthu trwy gydol semester 1. Yn ogystal â hynny ceir cyfres o sgyrsiau ymchwil a roddir gan staff academaidd yn semester 1 a semester 2. Yn ystod y tiwtorial cyntaf, bydd y tiwtoriaid yn trafod natur y cwrs a’r deilliannau dysgu sydd angen i’r myfyrwyr eu cyflawni. Bydd y tiwtor yn arwain trafodaeth ar bwnc i’w astudio a bydd y myfyrwyr yn cael rhestr ddarllen awgrymedig a disgrifiad o’r dasg fydd angen ei gwneud (h.y. traethawd neu gyflwyniad). Yn y tiwtorialau dilynol, bydd myfyrwyr yn cael adborth ffurfiannol ar y gwaith a gyflwynwyd, a bydd y tiwtor yn cyflwyno'r pwnc a'r dasg nesaf. Y tiwtoriaid penodol fydd yn dewis y pynciau i'w trafod am eu bod yn berthnasol ac yn ddefnyddiol ar gyfer ffrwd arbennig y radd y mae pob myfyriwr yn astudio ar ei chyfer. Bydd cynnwys y cwrs felly'n amrywio ar gyfer pob unigolyn. Caiff y themâu cyffredinol canlynol eu cynnwys er mwyn sicrhau cysondeb yn yr ysgol: Pwysigrwydd bod yn ffeithiol gywir wrth roi gwybodaeth i’r cyhoedd a phobl eraill. Swyddogaeth sail dystiolaethol gadarn wrth benderfynu ar bolisïau. Pwysigrwydd meddwl mewn modd rhyngddisgyblaethol. Gall y dull o ymdrin â’r themâu hyn hefyd amrywio o’r naill diwtor i’r llall, ond y fframwaith canlynol a ddefnyddir: Traethawd 1 (1500 gair) – caiff ei farcio a’i ddefnyddio ar gyfer adborth ffurfiannol. Llyfryddiaeth - caiff ei farcio fel rhan o asesiad ffurfiol. Cyflwyniad 1 (5-10 munud) – caiff ei farcio a’i ddefnyddio ar gyfer adborth ffurfiannol. Traethawd 2 (1500 gair) - caiff ei farcio fel rhan o’r asesiad ffurfiannol.
    or
    DXX-1000: Academic Tutorials&Key Skills (10) (Semester 1)
    The module is structurally similar to equivalent modules in the two other schools that form the College of Natural Sciences (i.e. School of Ocean Sciences and School of Biological Sciences) and assessment methods are similar. During the welcome week (i.e. week 0 of the first year), students and their allocated tutor will meet and timetable 5 tutorial sessions to be spread throughout semester 1. In addition there will be a series of research talks given by academic staff in semester 1 and semester 2. During the first of these tutorials, tutors will discuss with their students the nature of the course, and the learning outcomes that are to be achieved. The tutor will lead a discussion on a topic for study, and the students will receive a list of suggested reading and a description of the task to be completed (i.e. essay or presentation). In subsequent tutorials, students will receive formative feedback on presented work, and the tutor will introduce the following topic and task. Topics covered will be chosen by the individual tutor to be relevant and informative to the particular degree stream each student is following, thus the actual course content will vary between individuals. However, in order to ensure consistency across the school, the following overarching themes will be covered, The importance of factual accuracy when conveying information to the public and others The role of a sound evidence base in policy making The importance of interdisciplinary thinking The manner in which these themes are covered may also vary from tutor to tutor, but the following structure will be used: Essay 1 (1500 words) - Graded and used for formative feedback. Bibliography - Marked as part of formal assessment Presentation 1 (5 - 10 minutes) - Marked as part of formal assessment Essay 2 (1500 words) - Marked as part of formal assessment.
  • DXX-1007: Academic Tutorials&Key Skills (20) (Semester 1 + 2)
    The module is structurally similar to equivalent modules in the two other schools that form the College of Natural Sciences (i.e. School of Ocean Sciences and School of Biological Sciences) and assessment methods are similar. During the welcome week (i.e. week 0 of the first year), students and their allocated tutor will meet and timetable 5 tutorial sessions to be spread throughout semester 1. In semester 2 there will be a further 5 tutorial sessions. In addition there will be a series of research talks given by academic staff in semester 1 and semester 2. During the first of these tutorials, tutors will discuss with their students the nature of the course, and the learning outcomes that are to be achieved. The tutor will lead a discussion on a topic for study, and the students will receive a list of suggested reading and a description of the task to be completed (i.e. essay or presentation). In subsequent tutorials, students will receive formative feedback on presented work, and the tutor will introduce the following topic and task. Topics covered will be chosen by the individual tutor to be relevant and informative to the particular degree stream each student is following, thus the actual course content will vary between individuals. However, in order to ensure consistency across the school, the following overarching themes will be covered, The importance of factual accuracy when conveying information to the public and others The role of a sound evidence base in policy making The importance of interdisciplinary thinking The manner in which these themes are covered may also vary from tutor to tutor, but the following structure will be used: Essay 1 (1500 words) - Graded and used for formative feedback. Bibliography - Marked as part of formal assessment Presentation 1 (5 - 10 minutes) - Marked as part of formal assessment Essay 2 (1500 words) - Marked as part of formal assessment. Abstract (300 words) - Marked as part of formal assessment Presentation 2 (5-10 minutes) - Marked as part of formal assessment Essay 3 (1500 words) - Marked as part of formal assessment
  • DXC-1303: Methodoleg maes (10) (Semester 2)
    Mae'r cwrs yn cyflwyno egwyddorion technegau sy'n berthnasol i astudiaethau maes ar gyfer daearyddiaeth, astudiaethau'r amgylchedd a defnydd tir. Mae'n cynnwys technegau addas ar gyfer amrediad eang o sefyllfaoedd gan gynnwys agweddau ecolegol, ffisegol a daearyddol. Erbyn diwedd y cwrs bydd y rhai sy'n ei ddilyn wedi cael profiad o ddefnyddio nifer o dechnegau ac o ddehongli'r canlyniadau. Bydd y cwrs yn cael ei redeg dros benwythnos hir. Bydd y cwrs yn cynnwys astudiaethau mewn nifer o feysydd gwahanol, a allai gynnwys y canlynol: a) Dadansoddi newidiadau yng ngorlifdir afon gan ddefnyddio ffynonellau hanesyddol a mesuriadau cyfoes. b) Asesu dylanwad ac addasrwydd melinau gwynt ar gyfer ardal benodol gan ystyried oblygiadau amgylcheddol ac ystyriaethau cynllunio. c) Astudio'r prosesau sy'n gwahardd pobl o leoedd penodol gan ganolbwyntio ar brosesau ffurfiol ac anffurfiol mewn trefi. d) Dehongli'r ffactorau sy'n dylanwadau ar ddefnydd tir mewn ardal benodol gan ystyried effeithiau daearyddol a dynol. e) Astudio'r modd y mae cymunedau'n datblygu mewn ardaloedd gwledig a threfol a'r ffactorau hanesyddol a phresennol sy'n dylanwadu arnynt. f) Dehongli effeithiau rhewlifau ar dirwedd ac ardal benodol gan ystyried damcaniaethau gwahanol
  • if you wish to study Methodoleg Maes DXC-1303 *Study DXX-1000 Academic Tutorial & Key Skills (10 credits)

Year 2 Modules

Compulsory Modules

Semester 1

  • DXX-2000: GIS & Research Methods (20)
    Geographical Information Systems: data types, raster and vector data; primary sources, data capture; secondary data sources, data providers; data export formats and data translation; data projections, OSGB and WGS84 lat long; Global Positioning System (GPS), position fixing; organisation of spatial data; Structured Query Language (SQL); geoprocessing, overlay and boolean data, spatial sampling, modelling and analytical approaches; potential uses of GIS utilising a range of examples. Statistics: principles of hypothesis generation, sampling, study design, spatial methods, 1 and 2 way ANOVA for completely randomised designs; 1 factor randomised block ANOVA; correlation coefficient; simple and multiple linear regression; social research methods. Computer-based data manipulation, analysis and presentation. Students will be encouraged to develop effective learning skills including: production of a honours project proposal; communication skills; and time management.
  • DXX-2006: Climate Change (20)
    1. Major concepts; climate and environmental change and `global warming¿. 2. Temporal and spatial patterns of historical climate change. Major glacial/interglacial cycles, Quaternary climate change (Last Glacial Maximum, Younger Dryas Hypsithermal, Medieval Warm Period, Little Ice Age). Potential contributing factors (orbital forcing, sunspot activity). Hemispheric differences in climate variation. 3. Use of environmental proxies. The course will cover the use of a range of environmental proxies for reconstructing past climate at a range of temporal and spatial scales. This will include the use of dendrochronological records, palaeo-atmospheric chemistry (ice-cores), speleotherms, varved sedimentary deposits, documentary records, primary climate observations. 4. Environmental and human impacts of climate change. Focusing on both historical and contemporary issues: megafaunal extinctions, population stress in the LIA, drought in sub-Saharan Africa. 5. The contemporary climate change debate. Depiction in the popular media, causes, magnitude. Evidence presented in the peer-reviewed, scientific literature. 6. Future predictions of climate change. IPCC, GCMs. 7. Adaption to climate change. Focus on both attempts to address potential causes (CO2 and `greenhouse gas¿ releases, Kyoto Protocol, Copenhagen Summit, carbon capture, renewable energy, energy efficiency, carbon credits, offsetting) and impacts (impacts of climatic change upon weather and the environment, changing frequency and magnitude of extreme events). 8. Socio-economic impacts of climate change.
  • DXX-2008: Geohazards (20)
    • Hazards and disaster: what they are, complexity, risk and management • Historical perspectives: events, reconstruction and what we’ve learnt, early warning systems • Hazards: types, forecasting, planning • Hazards and the future: planning, resilience and reduction

Semester 2

  • DXX-2000: GIS & Research Methods
    Geographical Information Systems: data types, raster and vector data; primary sources, data capture; secondary data sources, data providers; data export formats and data translation; data projections, OSGB and WGS84 lat long; Global Positioning System (GPS), position fixing; organisation of spatial data; Structured Query Language (SQL); geoprocessing, overlay and boolean data, spatial sampling, modelling and analytical approaches; potential uses of GIS utilising a range of examples. Statistics: principles of hypothesis generation, sampling, study design, spatial methods, 1 and 2 way ANOVA for completely randomised designs; 1 factor randomised block ANOVA; correlation coefficient; simple and multiple linear regression; social research methods. Computer-based data manipulation, analysis and presentation. Students will be encouraged to develop effective learning skills including: production of a honours project proposal; communication skills; and time management.
  • DXX-2011: Catchment Processes (20)
    This module will provide a management-oriented understanding of the factors influencing the quality and quantity of soil and water resources. The hydrological cycle and water balance in catchments; rainfall/runoff relationships; catchment characteristics; catchment structure ¿ hillslope, channel & floodplain domains; sedimentation; the role of vegetation and land-use changes in catchment stability, hydrological processes and soil erosion; water quality; temperate and tropical catchment results and case studies; degrading processes in catchments; legislation and the Water Framework Directive.
  • DXX-2015: Field Course: Geography (20)
    The field course involves field visits and student-led research activities focused on the physical processes that generate earth resources, the environment legacy of resource exploitation and the socio-economic changes that occur (both historically and contemporally) with the development of extractive industries. The module will particularly focus upon the industries that have developed in association with resources of china clay, slate and metals. The course will involve summatively and formatively assessed group work as well as individually-authored assessment.
    or
    DXC-2015: Gwaith Maes: Daeryddiaeth (20)
    1. Cyd-destun daearegol y broses o ffurfio adnoddau’r ddaear 2. Defnyddio adnoddau’r ddaear: yn cynnwys, rhywfaint neu’r cwbl o’r canlynol: glo, metelau cyffredin, mawn, caolin, 3. Effeithiau amgylcheddol defnyddio adnoddau. 4. Perthynas sosio-economaidd defnyddio adnoddau: twf a dirywiad. 5. Dulliau o adfywio sosio-economaidd. 6. Materion yn ymwneud â chynllunio wrth adfywio.

Optional Modules

20 credits from:

  • DXX-2001: Sustainable Development (20) (Semester 1 + 2)
    This module will look at sustainable development which is based on effective ways of protecting the environment, prudent use of natural resources, maintenance of stable and flourishing communities where everyone’s needs are met. Thus changing and contested discourses of power, community, distinctiveness of place and social progress will also be considered along side effective environmental planning and management methods. These entail specific examples of tools applied for working towards, managing and monitoring sustainability will be presented e.g. LCA, Eco Systems services and specific case studies where these have and are being applied will be utilised from real contrasting geographical areas. The module will draw on existing tourism-related initiatives at local, regional and national level and provide critical commentary on their relative effectiveness and lessons learnt relating to sustainability. In order to examine strategic economic activity within the scope of sustainability theoretical discussion of several contexts will be examined in detail e.g. Local Food Initiatives, Sustainable Tourism, Sustainable Agriculture. This will include the basic global principles of sustainable tourism and how these have been variously applied in different contexts through charters and protocols. The development of the concept of sustainability will be examined in a general introduction to the changing population, resource technological and development debate. The economic theories relating to the wise management of natural resource will be explored along with the notion of governance for sustainable development involving international actors e.g. TNC’s and Campaigning groups. Students will be afforded the opportunity to work alongside staff within small project teams (max size 5) on specific case study scenarios involving techniques currently used by local sustainability practitioners and individually in quantitative assessment. Some of these projects will involve community organisations local to North Wales. This will include consideration of the recently extended section of the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty as a potential model approach to a sustainably managed protected area which emphasises high environmental quality and adding value and appreciation through integrated land use and activity management.
    or
    DXC-2001: Datblygiad Cynaliadwy (20) (Semester 1 + 2)
    Bydd y modiwl hwn yn edrych ar ddatblygiad cynaladwy sy'n seiliedig ar ffyrdd effeithiol o ddiogelu’r amgylchedd, defnyddio adnoddau naturiol yn gall, cynnal cymunedau sefydlog a ffyniannus lle bodlonir anghenion pawb. Ystyrir hefyd y syniadau, sy’n newid ac yn peri anghytundeb, am rym, cymuned, hynodrwydd lleoliad a chynnydd cymdeithasol ynghyd â chynllunio amgylcheddol a dulliau rheoli effeithiol. Cyflwynir hefyd enghreifftiau penodol o ardaloedd daearyddol cyferbyniol lle defnyddir arfau i weithio tuag at gynaladwyedd, rheoli cynaladwyedd a monitro cynaladwyedd, e.e. EIA, SEA, dadansoddi cost a budd ac astudiaethau achos penodol. Er mwyn ystyried gweithgarwch economaidd strategol yng nghwmpas cynaladwyedd, edrychir yn fanwl ar y drafodaeth ddamcaniaethol mewn sawl cyd-destun, e.e. trafnidiaeth gynaliadwy, twristiaeth gynaliadwy, amaethyddiaeth gynaliadwy, dyfodol ynni. Ystyrir datblygiad y cysyniad o gynaladwyedd mewn cyflwyniad cyffredinol i boblogaeth sy’n newid a’r ddadl ynglŷn â datblygu adnoddau technolegol. Ystyrir y theorïau economaidd sy’n ymwneud â rheoli adnoddau naturiol mewn dull doeth ynghyd â’r syniad o lywodraethu datblygiad cynaladwy sy’n cynnwys cyrff rhyngwladol, e.e. TNC a grwpiau ymgyrchu. Caiff myfyrwyr gyfle i weithio gyda staff mewn timau project bach (4 ar y mwyaf) ar senarios astudiaethau achos penodol yn cynnwys technegau a ddefnyddir ar hyn o bryd gan ymarferwyr cynaladwyedd lleol. Bydd rhai o’r projectau hyn yn cynnwys cyrff cymunedol lleol.
  • DXX-2002: Water, air & soil pollution (20) (Semester 1)
    1. Introduction to soil quality 2. Key concept: Soil water 3. Key concept: Nutrient cycling in ecosystems 4. Key concept: Soil biology and biodiversity 5. Key concept: Nutrient function and plant uptake 6. Key concept: The rhizosphere 7. Key concept: Mycorrhizas and N2 fixation 8. Global problems I: Soil salinity 9. Global problems II: Soil acidity 10. Global problems III: Human and animal pathogens 11. Global problems IV: Organic pollutants 12. Global problems V: Food security (inc. pests and fertilizers) 13. Global problems VI: Soil erosion 14. Global problems VII: Water use and conservation 15. Global problems VIII: Heavy metals 16. Introduction to air quality 17. Global problems III: Volcanic/Particulate matter (PM10s etc) 18. Global problems IV: Radon 19. Introduction to water quality 20. Global problems I: Eutrophication 21. Global problems II: Sewage and waterborne diseases 22. Global problems III: Pesticides and pollutants
  • DXX-2003: Principles of Conservation (20) (Semester 1)
    • The need for nature conservation and the nature of conservation • Patterns of global biodiversity • Extinction crisis and habitat loss • Small population biology • Harvesting theory • Invasive species control •Strategies for Ex situ conservation • Species reintroductions • The need for habitat conservation • Island biogeography • Selecting sites for protection • Managing protected areas • Integrating social and economic factors in conservation • Responding to climate change and pollution
  • OSX-2005: Remote Sensing & Geophysics (20) (Semester 2)
    Geodesy - Shape of the Earth - The Geoid - Datums - Co-ordinate systems and transformations - Projections Position fixing systems - GPS - Galileo and Glonass - Underwater positioning systems Remote sensing - Introduction - Remote sensing systems - Corrections applied to the data - Processing of remote sensing data - Applications of instrumentation Acoustic methods - Acoustic theory - Acoustic instrumentation and survey techniques - Applications of seafloor mapping
  • DXX-2007: People, Space & Place (20) (Semester 2)
    1. Conceptualising space and place: Definitions of space, place and landscape 2. Theorising space: Key thinkers on space and place 3. Place and nature 4. The social and cultural production of space and place 5. The making and governance of places 6. Contesting place: Exclusion and marginalisation,
  • OSX-2011: Ice and Oceans (20) (Semester 1)
    Glaciology: glaciers on the earth's surface; scale and forms. Ice accumulation and ablation; glacier mass balance. Glacier thermal regime. Ice flow/movement. Processes of glacial erosion, sediment entrainment/transport and deposition on land and in the ocean. Ice sheets as archives of past climate change. Ice core records. Control of sea-level by glaciers. The glacio-eustatic mechanism, glacio-hydro-isostasy, ice-water gravitational attraction. High latitude physical oceanography: the generation of deep-cold, bottom water masses (NADW, AABW) and their influence on Northern Atlantic, Southern Ocean and the general circulation of the oceans. The circulation of the Southern, Arctic and North Atlantic oceans. Terrestrial ice in the ocean: ice shelves, ice tongues, icebergs and their role in deposition and sediment reworking. Tidewater glaciers and fjords. Grounding line fans, glacial debris flows, trough mouth fans, slumps and slides. Glacial geology of the Polar North Atlantic. Icebergs and iceberg scour. Ecology and palaeoecology of glacimarine environments. Criteria used to identify glacimarine environments. Ice-rafted detritus in deep marine sediments. The module will embed 1. a Field Excursion to Snowdonia and the Llyn Peninsula to examine glacigenic landforms and sediments, and 2. desk-top study related to ice-ocean interactions and IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) 2007.
  • DXX-2014: Geography Outdoors (20) (Semester 1 + 2)
    The module will include the following: Geographical theories and concepts relating to managing the countryside for outdoor activities ; UK legislation relating to access, recreation, conservation and environment group management and the responsibilities of the group leader; navigation;; identifying and responding to hazards; selection and use of equipment; expedition skills. These will be based on a range of the outdoor learning environments e.g. lakes, coastline, hills and mountains.
  • DXC-2018: Geomorffoleg Afonol (20) (Semester 1)
    Amcan y modiwl yma yw cyflwyno myfyrwyr i’r prosesau allweddol sydd yn rheoli symudiad dŵr a gwaddodion drwy’r basn afon dros amrywiaeth o raddfeydd amserol a gofodol. Gellir deal y symudiadau yma fel rheolydd ac fel sgil-effaith o forffoleg y basn, ac fe archwilir y rhyngweithiad sensitif yma yng nghyd-destun y basn cyfan a pharthau annatod y llethr a’r sianel.

Year 3 Modules

Year 4 Modules

Compulsory Modules

Semester 1

  • DXX-3701: Honours project (30)
    The module allows students to undertake an extensive and original independent investigation of a topic of relevance to their degree programme. It may involve practical experimentation in the laboratory and/or field or a non-experimental study. It is conducted under the supervision of a member of academic staff. The module also provides opportunities for students to develop their own ideas, to show initiative, to work on their own and to follow an agreed plan, and for these attributes to be assessed. The project must be written up in the form of a research honours project, to a specified format. In addition, it may also be assessed by a poster presentation, oral presentation, or other method, that may vary according to the degree programme, but that will be specified at the start of the module.
    or
    DXC-3701: Project Anrhydedd (30)
    Mae'r modiwl hwn yn caniatáu i fyfyrwyr gynnal ymchwiliad annibynnol eang a gwreiddiol o bwnc sy'n berthnasol i'w rhaglen gradd. Mae'n bosib y bydd yn cynnwys arbrofi ymarferol mewn labordy a / neu drwy waith maes, neu astudiaeth nad yw'n ymwneud ag arbrofi. Fe'i cynhelir o dan oruchwyliaeth aelod o'r staff academaidd. Mae'r modiwl hefyd yn rhoi cyfle i fyfyrwyr ddatblygu eu syniadau eu hunain, dangos eu gallu i fentro, gweithio'n annibynnol ac i ddilyn cynllun y cytunwyd arno, ac i'r priodoleddau hyn gael eu hasesu. Mae'n rhaid i waith ysgrifenedig y project fod ar ffurf adroddiad ymchwil, mewn fformat penodol. Bydd hefyd yn cael ei asesu ar sail cyflwyniad llafar mewn seminar; bydd y manylion ar gael ar ddechrau'r modiwl.

Semester 2

  • DXX-3018: Rivers, Coast and Oceans (20)
  • DXX-3701: Honours project
    The module allows students to undertake an extensive and original independent investigation of a topic of relevance to their degree programme. It may involve practical experimentation in the laboratory and/or field or a non-experimental study. It is conducted under the supervision of a member of academic staff. The module also provides opportunities for students to develop their own ideas, to show initiative, to work on their own and to follow an agreed plan, and for these attributes to be assessed. The project must be written up in the form of a research honours project, to a specified format. In addition, it may also be assessed by a poster presentation, oral presentation, or other method, that may vary according to the degree programme, but that will be specified at the start of the module.
    or
    DXC-3701: Project Anrhydedd
    Mae'r modiwl hwn yn caniatáu i fyfyrwyr gynnal ymchwiliad annibynnol eang a gwreiddiol o bwnc sy'n berthnasol i'w rhaglen gradd. Mae'n bosib y bydd yn cynnwys arbrofi ymarferol mewn labordy a / neu drwy waith maes, neu astudiaeth nad yw'n ymwneud ag arbrofi. Fe'i cynhelir o dan oruchwyliaeth aelod o'r staff academaidd. Mae'r modiwl hefyd yn rhoi cyfle i fyfyrwyr ddatblygu eu syniadau eu hunain, dangos eu gallu i fentro, gweithio'n annibynnol ac i ddilyn cynllun y cytunwyd arno, ac i'r priodoleddau hyn gael eu hasesu. Mae'n rhaid i waith ysgrifenedig y project fod ar ffurf adroddiad ymchwil, mewn fformat penodol. Bydd hefyd yn cael ei asesu ar sail cyflwyniad llafar mewn seminar; bydd y manylion ar gael ar ddechrau'r modiwl.

Optional Modules

70 credits from:

  • DXX-3001: Environmental Geochemistry (10) (Semester 1)
    1. Context and major concepts: key terminology, introduction to the primary environment and natural elemental abundance, importance of mineralization. 2. Introduction to the secondary environment. Geochemical behaviour in the secondary environment, cations and valency, processes of sorption, importance of pH and Eh. 3. Human activities as sources of metals to the environment: mining, smelting, petrol combustion, waste incineration, use of sewage sludge. 4. Natural release of metals to the environment: processes of physical, biological and chemical weathering, volcanic activity, determining `background' metal concentrations. 5. Processes of contaminant metal dispersal within the secondary environment. 6. Mapping of environmental geochemistry and the use of geochemical maps. 7. Geochemistry and human health: toxicity and deficiency. 8. The development, application and relevance of environmental legislation: e.g. EU WFD.
  • DXX-3003: Field Course: Barcelona (20) (Semester 1)
    This single semester, 20-credit module at Level Three includes the following elements and is assessed 100% by coursework: - • Seven-day residential field study visit to the city of Barcelona and the Autonomous Region of Catalonia, Spain. A detailed itinerary is provided for the group which includes a period of individual research • A series of one-hour staff lead preparatory seminars, Wks1-5. These are compulsory and a register will be taken. • Directed investigative and analytical research task to inform a 10 minute formal power-point presentation for week 5. This will be undertaken in groups of 2-3 students each tackling a set theme of choice relevant as background research for the study tour. • During the visit, organised group visits, with guided tours to sites and resources relevant to the students’ degree subjects, will be conducted with full regard to University Health and Safety guidance. Students will agree to a module code of professional practice and behaviour whilst on the visit. • Best use of free time during the visit will be planned in advance in order to gather field based material/observations to inform your choice of research report. On return you will be required to submit an individually written, evaluative and analytical report by the end of the semester (exact date to be circulated later).
    or
    DXC-3003: Gwaith Maes: Barcelona (20) (Semester 1)
    Mae’r modiwl 20 credyd hwn ar Lefel Tri, a gynhelir dros un semester, yn cynnwys yr elfennau canlynol ac fe'i hasesir yn gyfan gwbl trwy waith cwrs: - • Ymweliad maes preswyl saith diwrnod i ddinas Barcelona a Rhanbarth Ymreolaethol Catalonia, Sbaen. Darperir amserlen fanwl i'r grŵp sy'n cynnwys cyfnod o ymchwil unigol. • Cyfres o seminarau paratoi awr yr un dan arweiniad staff, Wythnosau 1 – 5. Mae’r rhain yn orfodol a chedwir cofrestr. • Tasg ymchwiliadol a dadansoddol dan gyfarwyddyd i ddarparu at gyflwyniad PowerPoint ffurfiol 10 munud yn wythnos 5. Gwneir hyn mewn grwpiau o 2 – 3 myfyriwr gyda phob un yn ymdrin â thema benodedig a fydd yn berthnasol fel cefndir ymchwil i’r daith. • Yn ystod yr ymweliad, cynhelir ymweliadau grŵp gyda theithiau tywys i safleoedd ac adnoddau sy’n berthnasol i bynciau gradd y myfyrwyr. Bydd y rhain yn cydymffurfio’n llawn â chanllawiau Iechyd a Diogelwch y Brifysgol. Bydd myfyrwyr yn cytuno i ddilyn cod ymarfer ac ymddygiad proffesiynol y modiwl yn ystod yr ymweliad. • Byddwch angen cynllunio ymlaen llaw beth yw'r ffordd orau o ddefnyddio amser rhydd yn ystod yr ymweliad er mwyn casglu deunydd/arsylwadau maes a fydd yn ddefnyddiol ar gyfer eich adroddiad ymchwil. Ar ôl i chi ddychwelyd bydd angen i chi gyflwyno adroddiad gwerthusol a dadansoddol, a ysgrifennwyd gennych chi eich hun, erbyn diwedd y semester (dyddiad i’w gyhoeddi’n ddiweddarach).
  • DXX-3009: Professional Placement (20) (Semester 1)
    The practical element of the module comprises a block placement (15-20 days) during the summer vacation between the second and third (final) years. The placement must be approved by the module organiser and the University before work begins; the module organiser will monitor progress during the placement, mainly by email. During the first semester of the final year, students attend a post-placement meeting and individual tutorials, and submit a placement portfolio.
    or
    DXC-3009: Lleoliad Gwaith (20) (Semester 1)
    Mae’r elfen ymarferol o’r modwl yn cynnwys lleoliad bloc o 15 - 20 diwrnod dylid ei gwblhau rhwng yr ail a’r drydedd flwyddyn ( y flwyddyn olaf.) Rhaid i’r lleoliad gael ei gymeradwyo gan gyfarwyddwr y modwl cyn y ceir caniatâd i ddechrau gwaith ar y lleoliad ; fe fydd y cyfarwyddwr hefyd yn monitro cynnydd y myfyriwr, gan amlaf trwy e-bost. Yn ystod y semester wedi iddynt gwblhau’r lleoliad, disgwylir i fyfyrwyr fynychu cyfarfod, tiwtorialau unigol ac i gyflwyno’r portffolio lleoliad
  • OSX-3012: Marine Geology & Applications (20) (Semester 1)
    The module is divided into two parts: (1) Quaternary palaeoceanography, the study of the history of the oceans during the last 2.5 million years, and (2) critical events in ocean history during the Mesozoic and Cenozoic. Part 1 is taught through a series of lectures and Part 2 through a series of student-led seminars reviewing key papers. The module will be delivered by Professor James Scourse. Part 1 focuses on how we detect changes in water mass distribution and circulation through time, how we know when these events occur, and their role as part of the global climate system. Key topics include: Deep ocean sediments and climate change; deep sea core stratigraphy, correlation. Dating techniques. Physical palaeoceanographic proxies: multi-sensor core logger data, spectrophotometry, XRF scanners: the sortable silt index. Principles of palaeoecology; distribution of organisms in water masses and sediments. Important fossil groups. Indicator species and transfer functions. Oxygen and carbon isotope stratigraphy; ice volume and sea-level change; palaeoproductivity and atmospheric CO2 fluctuations; comparison with ice core data. Trace element geochemistry. Organic biomarkers. Sea-level change. The causes of climate change; tectonic, solar, orbital and feedback mechanisms. Part 2 addresses a number of specific events in ocean history, including Mesozoic anoxic events and the origin of biogenic sediments, the Palaeocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum (PETM), the onset of glaciation in Antarctica, the closing of the Isthmus of Panama, the Messinian salinity crisis, the onset of Arctic glaciation and the establishment and disruption of the global thermohaline circulation. Cross-cutting tectonic themes will include the origin of the North Atlantic, the closure of Tethys and the break-up of Gondwanaland.
  • DXX-3013: Current Issues in Human Geog. (10) (Semester 2)
    This module runs in the second semester and enables the student to undertake an individual desk-based research project looking in depth at a particular relevant newly emerging issue within human geography. The results of the research are presented in an essay and through the creation of a poster . The visual evidence is then presented to an audience of peers from the module. A variety of sources must be used in conducting this research and the project must be different from that chosen in the student’s Honours Research project. The subject is chosen by the student, in consultation with the module convenor.
    or
    DXC-3013: Daearyddiaeth Ddynol Gyfoes (10) (Semester 2)
    Mae’r modwl hwn yn rhedeg yn semester 2 ac yn galluogi’r myfyriwr i wneud ymchwil unigol llenyddol ar fater cyfoes mewn daearyddiaeth ddynol. Caiff canlyniadau’r ymchwil eu cyflwyno ar ffurf traethawd a thrwy greu poster. Mae’r dystiolaeth weledol yn cael ei gyflwyno i gynulleidfa o gyfoedion o’r modwl. Rhaid defnyddio ystod briodol o ffynonellau i gynnal yr ymchwil a dylai’r prosiect fod yn wahanol o’r hyn ddewisir fel pwnc Prosiect Ymchwil Anrhydedd y myfyriwr. Dewisir y pwnc gan y myfyrwyr, thrwy ymgynghoriad gyda chydlynydd modwl.
  • DXX-3014: Current Issues in Human Geog. (20) (Semester 2)
    This module runs in the second semester and enables the student to undertake an individual desk-based research project looking in depth at a particular 2 relevant newly emerging issues within human geography. The results of the research are presented in an essay on the first issue and a seminar paper and oral presentation on the second issue. The seminar paper is presented to an audience of peers from the module. A variety of sources must be used in conducting this research and the issues chosen must be different from that chosen in the student’s Honours Research project. The issues are chosen by the student, in consultation with the module convenor.
    or
    DXC-3014: Materion Cyfoes: Daear. Ddynol (20) (Semester 2)
    Mae’r modwl hwn yn rhedeg yn semester 2 ac yn galluogi’r myfyriwr i wneud ymchwil unigol llenyddol ddwfn ar fater cyfoes mewn daearyddiaeth ddynol., gan edrych ar ddwy thema wahanol. Caiff canlyniadau’r ymchwil o’r thema gyntaf eu cyflwyno ar ffurf traethawd , gyda phapur seminar a chyflwyniad llafar ar yr ail thema. Mae’r papur seminar yn cael ei gyflwyno i gynulleidfa o gyfoedion o’r modwl. Rhaid defnyddio ystod briodol o ffynonellau i gynnal yr ymchwil a dylai’r prosiect fod yn wahanol o’r hyn ddewisir fel pwnc Prosiect Anrhydedd y myfyriwr. Dewisir y pwnc gan y myfyrwyr, thrwy ymgynghoriad gyda chydlynydd modwl.
  • DXX-3017: GoverningSociety & Environment (20) (Semester 2)
  • DXX-3115: Advanced GIS & Remote Sensing (10) (Semester 2)
  • DXX-3305: Field Course: Tenerife (20) (Semester 1)
    A one-week field course on the environmentally diverse island of Tenerife. You will be taken to a variety of sites which demonstrate a range of rock, soil and vegetation types, and a range of conservation and sustainability issues. Some of these will involve meeting and discussion with local experts. You will spend time towards the end of the week working as pairs or small teams on a project designed by you and evolved in discussion with the teaching staff.
  • DXX-3402: Waste Management & Utilisation (10) (Semester 2)
    The world is using natural resources at an unprecedented rate, often with little thought given to the efficient use of those resources or the consequences of disposal. The current trend has led to generation of significant volumes of waste. This often represents a loss of potentially valuable product, in addition to causing a wide range of issues related to pollution and health, greenhouse gas emissions, and limited landfill availability. Governments and society now have to meet increasingly stringent targets for reducing waste volumes; indeed, effective waste management and utilisation is now regarded as an inherent part of sustainable development. This module will explore the implications of our present waste generation and materials utilisation philosophy, will look at the options and issues surrounding different strategies for dealing with waste, and will consider the changes needed to manage and utilise waste and materials in a sustainable manner.
  • DXX-3506: C. Issues in Env & related Sci (10) (Semester 1)
    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 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 20 minute interview and will submit a project report on their chosen topic. Both the interview and project report elements will be assessed.
    or
    DXC-3506: Materion Cyfoes yr Amgylchedd (10) (Semester 1)
    Bydd y modiwl hwn yn galluogi myfyrwyr i wneud project ymchwil ar gyfrifiadur gan edrych yn fanwl ar fater amgylcheddol cyfredol, neu fater yn gysylltiedig â'r amgylchedd. Cynhelir y modiwl yn Semester 1 a daw i ben gyda chynhyrchu adroddiad project ysgrifenedig a seminar. Dewisir y testunau gan y myfyriwr i adlewyrchu ei d(d)iddordeb a gallant amrywio o faterion lleol i rai byd-eang. Bydd myfyrwyr yn ymchwilio i amrediad o faterion cyfoes 'poblogaidd'. Dylid ymgynghori â ffynonellau megis papurau newydd o wahanol ansawdd, y cyfryngau darlledu, y rhyngrwyd, cyfnodolion gwyddonol `poblogaidd' a'r cyfnodolion gwyddonol a gaiff eu cloriannu'n fwy trwyadl gan arbenigwyr yn y maes. Dylai'r testun fod yn wahanol i'r un a ddewisir ar gyfer project ymchwil arbrofol y myfyriwr. Dylid dewis testunau mewn ymgynghoriad â threfnydd y modiwl. Mae'r modiwl yn cynnwys ymchwil a wneir gan fyfyrwyr i destun penodol. Ar wahân i ddarlith ragarweiniol nid oes unrhyw ddarlithoedd neu sesiynau ymarferol ffurfiol yn gysylltiedig â'r modiwl hwn. Ar ddiwedd Semester 1 bydd pob myfyriwr yn cyflwyno eu testun ar ffurf seminar 20 munud a byddant yn cyflwyno adroddiad project ar y testun o'u dewis. Bydd myfyrwyr yn mynd i seminarau ei gilydd a disgwylir iddynt gyfrannu at y drafodaeth ar ôl pob sgwrs. Asesir y seminar a'r adroddiad project.
  • DXX-3507: Renewable Energy (10) (Semester 2)
    The first part of the module briefly examines current energy resources, use and efficiency (3h). The next part of the course examines alternative renewable resources for fossil fuels involving combustion technologies (biogas, liquid biofuels and biomass, 4h). Following this renewable energy topics not involving combustion technologies are covered (wind, solar PV, solar thermal, geothermal, heat pump technologies, hydro, wave and tidal) along with associated issues of energy storage and distribution. Finally the course will examine other options being discussed in the UK and worldwide (e.g. fracking, CCS and nuclear energy). The course includes a field trip to Electric mountain, a pumped water energy storage scheme in Llanberis and a series of smaller scale projects at the National Trusts, Hafod y Llan. The conclusion of the course is conference with visiting speakers covering renewable energy technologies and their application.
  • DXX-3508: Environmental Issues (20) (Semester 1)
    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 interview. 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 two introductory lectures 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 20 minute interview and will submit a project report on their chosen topic. Both the interview and project report elements will be assessed.
    or
    DXC-3508: Materion Amgylcheddol (20) (Semester 1)
    Bydd y modiwl hwn yn galluogi myfyrwyr i wneud project ymchwil ar gyfrifiadur gan edrych yn fanwl ar fater amgylcheddol cyfredol, neu fater yn gysylltiedig â'r amgylchedd. Cynhelir y modiwl yn Semester 1 a daw i ben gyda chynhyrchu adroddiad project ysgrifenedig a seminar. Dewisir y testunau gan y myfyriwr i adlewyrchu ei d(d)iddordeb a gallant amrywio o faterion lleol i rai byd-eang. Bydd myfyrwyr yn ymchwilio i amrediad o faterion cyfoes 'poblogaidd'. Dylid ymgynghori â ffynonellau megis papurau newydd o wahanol ansawdd, y cyfryngau darlledu, y rhyngrwyd, cyfnodolion gwyddonol `poblogaidd' a'r cyfnodolion gwyddonol a gaiff eu cloriannu'n fwy trwyadl gan arbenigwyr yn y maes. Dylai'r testun fod yn wahanol i'r un a ddewisir ar gyfer project ymchwil arbrofol y myfyriwr. Dylid dewis testunau mewn ymgynghoriad â threfnydd y modiwl. Mae'r modiwl yn cynnwys ymchwil a wneir gan fyfyrwyr i destun penodol. Ar wahân i ddarlith ragarweiniol nid oes unrhyw ddarlithoedd neu sesiynau ymarferol ffurfiol yn gysylltiedig â'r modiwl hwn. Ar ddiwedd Semester 1 bydd pob myfyriwr yn cyflwyno eu testun ar ffurf seminar 20 munud a byddant yn cyflwyno adroddiad project ar y testun o'u dewis. Bydd myfyrwyr yn mynd i seminarau ei gilydd a disgwylir iddynt gyfrannu at y drafodaeth ar ôl pob sgwrs. Asesir y seminar a¿r adroddiad project.
  • DXX-3600: Food Geographies (10) (Semester 1) or
    DXC-3600: Food Geographies (10) (Semester 1)
  • DXX-3601: Food Geographies (20) (Semester 1 + 2) or
    DXC-3601: Food & Drink Geographies & Inn (20) (Semester 1 + 2)
  • DXX-3615: Environmental Policy (10) (Semester 1)
    Policy and the environment Basic concepts of government, sovereignty, politics, democracy. General features of political systems and governments in the UK and internationally. The role of diverse actors in the policy process: including politicians and parliaments, governments, bureaucracies and agencies, NGOs, media, interest groups and supranational bodies. Theories of politics and policy-making, including international relations.
  • DXX-3707: Catchment Modelling & Analysis (10) (Semester 2)
    Major themes covered 1. Importance of models in scientific inquiry 2. A brief history of different approaches to catchment modelling 3. Introduction to MATLAB programming language 4. Obtaining and processing the input data for models 5. Modelling of hydrological processes 6. Introduction to biogeochemical cycles in landscapes 7. Modelling of nutrient cycling and transport in catchments 8. Automated calibration of model parameters 9. Lumped vs. distributed catchment models 10. Polyscape: A landscape analysis tool for modelling the effects of multi-stakeholder interaction in catchment management decisions
  • DXX-3800: Coping with a Changing Planet (20) (Semester 1)
  • Students can take either DXC/DXX-3506 or DXC/XX-3508. Students can take either DXC/DXX-3013 or DXC/DXX-3014. Students can take either DXC/DXX-3003 or DXX-3305. Students can ake either DXC/DXX-3600 or DXC/DXX-3601.