ESC-30047 - Module Specification
School of Geography, Geology and the Environment
Faculty of Natural Sciences

Programme/Approved Electives for 2023/24

Available as a Free Standing Elective

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2023/24

This Dissertation module provides students with the opportunity to research in depth an appropriate area of Environmental Science or Sustainability of their choice through independent study guided by a supervisor through regular individual supervisory meetings.

The aims of the module are:
1) to enable students to develop a detailed knowledge and understanding of key multi-disciplinary issues at the forefront of Environmental Science and/or Sustainability research through carrying out an independent research project in an appropriate area of their choice;
2) to critically evaluate and apply appropriate Environmental Science/Sustainability concepts, practical methodologies and complex scientific issues using a range of primary and secondary information sources as appropriate;
3) to develop the skills necessary to exercise individual analysis, initiative and judgement on complex issues and be able to communicate these at an appropriate scientific level via a written report.
It aims to provide students with training and one-to-one supervision in the following key areas of their dissertation project: how to carry out their literature review, how to modify or fine-tune their research proposal (written at FHEQ level 5) in light of their literature review, how to apply appropriate research methods to their specific topic and how to approach their research topic in an interdisciplinary way.
The module also aims to enhance students' confidence in their ability to communicate the results of their research in written form.

Intended Learning Outcomes

demonstrate a systematic, detailed, coherent knowledge and understanding of a key multi-disciplinary issue/problem at the forefront of Environmental Science and/or Sustainability: 1
apply own knowledge, skills and experience to an aspect of current Environmental Science and/or Sustainability research through the use of established analytical scientific methods, literature review, data collection and interpretation: 1
make well-informed arguments and judgments on the issue studied, whilst appreciating the limits of current knowledge: 1
communicate effectively and persuasively the results of independent research in written form: 1

Study hours

- Dissertation workshops - 7 hours
- Meetings with dissertation advisor - at least 7 hours
- Independent research and writing of the dissertation - 286 hours

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment