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KEY SKILLS IN PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY

Module code: GY311
Credits: 5
Semester: 1
Department: GEOGRAPHY
International:
Coordinator: Dr Stephen McCarron (GEOGRAPHY)

	Overview
	Physical Geography is, to a large extent, a practical and quantitative sub discipline and this module will be based around: � field/lab-based study/collection of data � processing of collected data � analysis, interpretation and modelling of geographical data within an informed theoretical context � presentation of the results. This module seeks to provide a hands-on experience of the techniques employed in a range of physical geographical disciplines in order that they may obtain skills which cannot be learned within a conventional classroom environment. Field visits and/or fieldwork will form an integral component of this module which will run within 6 by 4 hour blocks. The module is only available to a restricted group of students with a proven strength in Physical Geography.

Overview

Physical Geography is, to a large extent, a practical and quantitative sub discipline and this module will be based around:
� field/lab-based study/collection of data
� processing of collected data
� analysis, interpretation and modelling of geographical data within an informed theoretical context
� presentation of the results.
This module seeks to provide a hands-on experience of the techniques employed in a range of physical geographical disciplines in order that they may obtain skills which cannot be learned within a conventional classroom environment. Field visits and/or fieldwork will form an integral component of this module which will run within 6 by 4 hour blocks. The module is only available to a restricted group of students with a proven strength in Physical Geography.

	Learning Outcomes
	On successful completion of the module, students should be able to: Describe and exemplify the nature of change within physical environments. Illustrate the contested and provisional nature of knowledge and understanding. Identify/formulate questions or problems and approaches to solving them specifically using hypotheses testing involving observation and measurement. Recognise the issues involved in applying research design within the specific context of field-based research. Illustrate the diversity of specialised techniques and approaches involved in collecting geographical information (e.g. instrumentation, remote sensing, cartographic surveying, observation). Have a systematic approach to maximising accuracy and precision and reducing uncertainty. Present material evidence taken from field based enquiry to support a reasoned argument including the interpretation and use of numerical and statistical information. Apply basic numerical skills to geographical information, synthesising numerical information and recognise its degree of relevance. Undertake independent/self-directed study/learning (including time-management) within a supportive framework. Perform assigned tasks within a group setting and take part in group discussions.

Learning Outcomes

Teaching & Learning methods

Assessment

	Autumn Supplementals/Resits
	Continuous assessment mark is carried forward to the Autumn, barring exceptional circumstances.

	Pre-Requisites
	Intending students are required to: 1. be available to undertake the fieldwork activities; 2. attend an interview to discuss their reasons for undertaking the module; 3. have a demonstrably good ability in first and second year Physical Geography modules. Places in laboratories and on fieldwork transport are also restricted, so quota restrictions will also apply.

	Timetable
	This timetable is not currently available, please contact the Geography Department.

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KEY SKILLS IN PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY