ESC-20037 - Module Specification
School of Geography, Geology and the Environment
Faculty of Natural Sciences

Programme/Approved Electives for 2021/22

Available as a Free Standing Elective

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

-

Barred Combinations

-

Description for 2021/22

The "Geoscience and Society" module develops an awareness of the essential contributions of geoscience to the economic, environmental and cultural needs of Society. It contains four main sections:
"Georesources and Society" investigates the sustainability of energy and mineral resources (oil, gas, coal, geothermal; platinum, copper, gold, etc.) and other associated issues (radioactive waste disposal, CO2 sequestration, 'fracking').
"Geohazards and Society" studies the human impact of geological phenomena such as earthquakes, tsunamis, landslides, and subsidence.
"Geoscience and Health" examines topics such as asbestos, heavy metals and radon and diseases related to geology.
"Geodiversity and Geoconservation" examines the designation and maintenance of sites important to geoscience (World Heritage, Geoparks, SSSIs, RIGS), together with their place in planning and public understanding of geoscience.

Develop an awareness of the essential contributions of geoscience to the economic, environmental and cultural needs of society.

Intended Learning Outcomes

critically evaluate, communicate effectively and apply awareness of geoscience challenges in resource exploration and exploitation, geohazards, geodiversity management, and their impact on society: 1,2,3
communicate effectively and apply awareness of the contribution of geoscience towards meeting the UN Sustainable Development Goals
: 3
assess and communicate effectively geoheritage condition status and develop geoconservation management plans: 2

Study hours

Lectures / Workshops 50 hours
Virtual Fieldwork 8 hours
Private study 92 hours

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment