GEG-30035 - Module Specification
School of Geography, Geology and the Environment
Faculty of Natural Sciences

Programme/Approved Electives for 2024/25

Available as a Free Standing Elective

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2024/25

The relationship between health and place has long been a focus for academic study. About 2,500 years ago, in his book `Airs, Waters and Places¿ Hippocrates is thought to be first to explore the connection between human health and the environment in detail. Over time, our technology and societies have evolved, but we cannot escape our environment¿s influence on our health. Anthropogenic climate change, for example, presents a current threat to planetary health, while deep rooted inequalities continue to create and maintain injustices in human health. This module will draw primarily from qualitative research from disciplines such as Geographies of Health and Wellbeing, Sociology of Health and Illness and other health related disciplines, to encourage students to explore, critically consider and build new research avenues for improving human health in environmentally and socially sustainable ways.
By taking this module, you will have the opportunity to explore your own interests, with guidance from the module leader. Assessment will be geared towards developing an understanding of how the relationship between health and the environment is researched, analysed and interpreted. Assessments will support you to think critically about how societies can improve in these areas. These skills are valued by employers in the civil service; third sector and research.

The module aims to help students develop an understanding of the relationship between health and the environment. The module will work alongside key themes in existing Geography and Environment courses such as ideas of inclusion, inequalities, sustainability and wellbeing. The module will draw primarily from qualitative research in the fields of Health Geography, Sociology of Health Illness and other health related disciplines. The module will also look at the impact on human health from processes such as climate change, air pollution and global pandemics. In assessments students will be able to present strategies for tackling significant issues facing human health. Firstly, through the development of a public health campaign that raises awareness of the interconnectedness of human health and the environment. Secondly, through a research proposal rooted in a critical discussion of research methods and the academic evidence on their chosen subject.

Intended Learning Outcomes

Describe the relationships between health and environment: 1,2
Explain the role of Geographies of Health, Sociology of Health and Illness and other related disciplines, for exploring the relationship between health and the environment: 1,2
Analyse issues created through the interrelationships of public health, sustainability and health inequalities: 1,2
Apply your learning to the development of new approaches to sustainable health: 1,2

Study hours

Active learning hours:
22 hours teaching session
11 hours structured engagement with online resources
Independent study hours:
40 hours preparation for assignment 1
40 hours preparation for assignment 2
37 hours independent study

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment