This module will introduce you to the basic chemical and physical processes which underpin our understanding of the environment and the creation of ecosystems. You will develop an awareness of global factors such as climate change, anthropogenic change and geopolitics which affect the environment and you will learn to identify the three aspects of sustainability (ecological, economic and societal) and discuss the interconnectivity and interdependence of these aspects.
You will learn to recognize the requirements and limitations of an environmental monitoring approach for a specific study and set up and execute a survey of a field site using appropriate sampling and data collection processes. You will be able to process and interpret the collected data and effectively communicate the results.
During the execution of these projects, you will apply key scientific concepts and theories related to various environmental systems and understand the key environmental challenges at play within and between environmental, social and economic systems within the region. You will then be required to identify practical interventions to address these challenges. This project will be carried out in teams and aims to develop your teamworking and communication skills as well as your ability to deal with uncertainty.
During the execution of these projects, you will apply key scientific concepts and theories related to various environmental systems and understand the key environmental challenges at play within and between environmental, social and economic systems within the region. You will then be required to identify practical interventions to address these challenges. This project will be carried out in teams and aims to develop your teamworking and communication skills as well as your ability to deal with uncertainty.
You will be able to identify appropriate remote sensing data collection and analysis techniques and integrate available remote sensing data from different sources into a GIS and other software solutions. You will apply the principles of GIS and other analytical approaches and techniques to analyse and manipulate remote-sensed data to produce outputs that efficiently communicate results.
Ruskin Modules are a great opportunity to explore challenges and ideas outside your area of study. Working with students from a range of courses, you'll be supported to create meaningful connections across disciplines, and apply new knowledge to tackle complex problems and key challenges. Ruskin Modules are designed to grow your confidence, realise your potential and help you prepare for the world of work.
On successful completion of this module, you will be able to interpret and analyse environmental data using a variety of different approaches including the use of computer programmes and coding. You will learn how to quality-check data and select the most appropriate analysis technique and integrate available spatial data from different sources into a GIS.
Through this module you will learn to critically analyse the requirements of international, national and regional environmental policies and legislation and to develop recognised and innovative solutions to meet their demands. You will be able to recognise the difficulties associated with balancing environmental concerns with other societal objectives within the context of legal and policy considerations.
As part of this module, you will undertake a critical analysis of different stakeholder engagement approaches (e.g., communication, consultation, participation) and which is recommended when. You will also learn how to effectively undertake stakeholder analysis by developing a stakeholder engagement plan using tools such as stakeholder mapping to identify who is involved, at what stage and what their interests and priorities are.
As you carry out this project you will learn to assess potential pollutant sources and collect data, perform analysis and evaluate information. Using environmental impact predictive tools and scientific knowledge you will propose mitigation techniques to reduce or remove environmental impact. The skills you will develop during this project include the ability to work competently in a team and autonomously and to communicate through high quality, well presented technical reports.
In this final project you will apply the understanding and skills developed during the course to address a complex, local environmental systems problem. You will carry out an in-depth analysis of the problem examining root causes and engaging with stakeholders to arrive at “upstream” solutions which will influence public behaviour and opinion and provide sustainable “soft” solutions to physical problems. The skills that you will develop include effective leadership and project management.
You are required to undertake a final year research project, as a key component of your degree, focused on a topic relevant to your degree field. The skills you will develop in the execution of this project include working autonomously with minimal supervision, literature analysis skills, data analysis and evaluation and oral and written communication skills.
This module will support you in your preparation of the two components of the End Point Assessment for the Environmental Practitioner Degree Apprenticeship: Work-based Project Report and Presentation with Questioning; and Structured Interview underpinned by a Portfolio.