Learning outcomes

Outcome 1
interpret, through field observation, the development of key landscapes and habitats in relation to environmental factors and historical and current management practices;
Performance Criteria:
A range of landscapes and habitats are described in terms of their field characteristics.
The geographical distribution and historical development of habitats in relation to land use, abiotic and biotic factors are accounted for.
Ranges:
Landscapes and Habitats - a selection of UK landscapes and habitats from coastal, upland, heathland, grassland, marine, woodland, agricultural, urban, wetland, freshwater.

Outcome 2
Apply appropriate field techniques to describe and quantify the distribution and abundance patterns of organism in relation to environmental factors.
Performance Criteria:
A range of abiotic factors are measured in the field
Sampling methods for recording the distribution and abundance of a range of organisms are understood and performed in selected habitats.
Ranges:
Landscapes and habitats - a selection of UK habitats from coastal, upland, heathland, grassland, marine, woodland, agricultural, urban, wetland, freshwater
Abiotic Factors - to include geological, climatic, edaphic, topographic, chemical.
Sampling - random, systematic, stratified random, counts, percentage cover, frequency of occurrence.

Outcome 3
Analyse and interpret field observations in an appropriate manner, producing a report using scientific terminology and style.
Performance criteria:
Field data is presented in an appropriate manner.
Field data is analysed and interpreted in relation to basic principles of environmental science.
Ranges:
Field data: Raw data and summary tables; bar charts, histograms, line graphs, pie charts; geological, soil and topography maps; field sketches.
Numerical analysis: data summation, mean, indices.
Scientific format: Introduction, methodology, results, discussion, conclusions.

Brief description

Transferable skills

.2 IT and information handling
Collection and analysis of field data will make use of appropriate information technology.
This skill will be assessed ? Outcome 16: Use a range of technological equipment and systems.

.3 Use and analysis of numerical information
Numerical field data will be collected, displayed and analysed.
This skill will be assessed - Outcome 15: Apply numerical skills and techniques.

.4 Writing in an academic context
The field report must be submitted in an appropriate scientific style.
This skill will be assessed - Outcome 8: Receive and respond to a variety of information,
Outcome 9: Present information in a variety of visual forms, Outcome 10: Communicate in writing.

.6 Careers need awareness
Field visits are likely to involve opportunities for discussion of current issues in management of the countryside related to careers for graduates. There may be opportunities to meet with individuals involved in the management of sites.

.7 Self-management
As the module will take the form of an intensive residential field course a high level of organisation and personal responsibility will be required of the participants.

.8 Group activity
Field data collection will take place in small groups who will be responsible for reporting back results to the whole class. The residential nature of the field course will require to students to operate in a `community? environment.

Module Skills

Reading Lists

Notes

This module is at CQFW Level 4