To provide experience in designing, executing and presenting, both orally and in a written report, a research project in the environmental sciences, based on data collected in the field.

(LO1) Gained knowledge, understanding and experience in planning and executing a research project in the Environmental Sciences.

(LO2) Developed key skills in Environmental Science field data collection and anlaysis.

(LO3) Enhanced skills in the statistical analysis of data

(LO4) Developed skills in planning, preparing and presenting an oral research project report, and writing an individual research project report

(S1) Problem solving skills

(S2) Teamwork

(S3) Organisational skills

(S4) Communication skills

(S5) IT skills

(S6) Leadership

(S7) Numeracy

Preparatory lecture:
Outline of the module; introduction to the environmental history of the field sites; possible research themes, field safety and personal conduct issues.

Field days:
To include:
- introduction to field sites by academic staff
- equipment demonstration by academic staff and practice use by students
- interactive development of research project to devise aims, objectives, research questions/hypotheses and methodology
- execution of data collection field work necesary for defined research project, with interactive assistance from staff members where required
- execution of preliminary data analysis necesary for defined research project, with interactive assistance from staff members

This module utilises active learning throughout by immersing students in environments where they must rapidly develop a relevant skillset. Skills include use of industry-standard environmental measurement and monitoring equipment for collection and analysis of quantitative data.

Before the field class, students are briefed on all logistical, safety and academic elements of the field class. During the field class, students work in groups and must build a team understanding of the project tasks, including allocate of roles and responsibilities. This promotes and practices collaborative team skills required in environmental science workplaces. Daily interaction and supervision in the field from module staff provides guidance on the development, and implementation of the group projects. This field experience provides preparation not only for final year research projects but also for future workplaces.