The aim of this module is to enhance generic and specific skills. Specific skills include the use of software for the visualisation of spatial and temporal variation of various oceanographic parameters (e.g. salinity, temperature, density, nutrient concentrations) and practical skills developed in laboratory (e.g. during analytical chemistry practical sessions) or during fieldwork. Generic skills include science communication (oral, written and visual), literature search and referencing, team work, time management and an understanding of the concept of academic integrity.

(LO1) Learn how to use a reference software, make a literature search and reference correctly

(LO2) Quantitatively summarise, synthesise and interpret data collected during fieldwork

(LO3) Present scientific content effectively through oral, written and/or poster communications

(LO4) Understand the analytical procedure for the determination of important analytes (e.g. oxygen, nutrients)

(LO5) Learn how to use ODV (Ocean Data View software) to visualise spatial and temporal variations of oceanographic parameters

(LO6) Understand the university policy on Academic Integrity

(S1) Numeracy/computational skills - Confidence/competence in measuring and using numbers

(S2) Communication (oral, written and visual) - Presentation skills - written

(S3) Communication (oral, written and visual) - Presentation skills - visual

(S4) Communication (oral, written and visual) - Academic writing (inc. referencing skills)

(S5) Critical thinking and problem solving - Synthesis

(S6) Communication (oral, written and visual) - Presentation skills – oral

In semester 1, students participate in fieldwork activities, are introduced to scientific research, to literature search, to referencing using a bibliographic software (Endnote, Mendeley), find out about academic integrity and its importance . Students also learn how to use ODV (Ocean Data View) which is an oceanographic visualisation tool. Communication and team work skills are developed through a written essay and a group presentation. Tutor/tutee meetings in groups of 6-7 students are taking place regularly as well as a one-to-one meeting towards the end of the semester.

In semester 2, laboratory skills are developed through practical sessions of analytical chemistry to measure analytes such oxygen, nutrients or chlorophyll in seawater. Students are trained in writing experimental reports following each of the practical sessions. Students also participate in fieldwork activities and design a poster to present their observation/results. Tutor/tutee meetings in groups of 6-7 students are taking place regularly as well as a one-to-one meeting towards the end of the semester.

Lectures: 4 x 1 h. Include an introduction of the module, basics of seawater properties and calculations.

Tutorials: Meeting between an individual tutor and typically 6-7 students. These are discussion based sessions to provide specific help and enhance communication skills;

Field Work: 1.5 day fieldwork in local area and/or around Liverpool;

Laboratory work: 4 x 3h analytical chemistry laboratory sessions for the determination of various analytes in seawater (e.g. oxygen, chlorophyll, nutrients);

Workshops: 3 x 2h practical sessions on how to use ODV (Ocean Data View) for the visualisation of oceanographic parameters. 2 x 2h for practice in referencing and literature search, 1 x 2h session on guidance to design a poster and 1 x 1 h career driven session.