Module Details

The information contained in this module specification was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change, either during the session because of unforeseen circumstances, or following review of the module at the end of the session. Queries about the module should be directed to the member of staff with responsibility for the module.
Title RESEARCH SKILLS (ECOLOGY)
Code ENVS204
Coordinator Dr RM Jeffreys
Earth, Ocean and Ecological Sciences
Rachel.Jeffreys@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2018-19 Level 5 FHEQ Whole Session 15

Aims

This module develops students' understanding and appreciation of Ecology and Marine Biology by developing subject-specific research and employability skills. The module focusses on four specific aims:

Devleop capacity to conduct research projects, through training in research methods, data analysis and transferable skills.

Teach and practice critical thinking and writing skills to prepare students for subsequent years of study.

Plan for summer vacation activity.

Plan for future careers and enhance employability.


Learning Outcomes

(LO1) Build knowledge of the fields of ecology and marine biology

(LO2) Develop experience in planning, executing and completing a research project

(LO3) Understand how to evaluate scientific literature

(LO4) Improve personal employability skills


Syllabus

 

Semester One

Activities in tutorials and workshops focus on a guided group research project during which students will design, conduct, analyse and write up a field study. Tutors will provide support during tutorials including one-to-one meetings. Lectures/Workshops include topics such as:

Recording data

Analysis Skills

Scientific Report Writing

Careers & Employability Service Presentation

Background to Independent Overseas Research Visit

Semester Two

Activities in tutorials and workshops focus on employability and preparation for work-based acitivities in the vacation such as the Independent Overseas Research Visit and Field Studies Council courses.

Tutors will provide support during  tutorials including one-to-one meetings . Lectures/Workshops include topics such as:

Displaying Quantitative Data

Health & Safety for Independent Overseas Resarch Visit

Networking Skills

Car eers Speed Dating

Interview Techniques for Independent Overseas Research Visit

The definitive timetable for all sessions will be in VITAL and ORBIT.


Teaching and Learning Strategies

Teaching Method 1 - Lecture
Description: A varied programme of skills-based workshops
Attendance Recorded: Yes
Notes: Most lectures/workshops last for 2 hours
Unscheduled Directed Student Hours (time spent away from the timetabled sessions but directed by the teaching staff): 8

Teaching Method 2 - Tutorial
Description: Tutorials provide instruction and support
Attendance Recorded: Yes
Notes: Five tutorials per semester including a one-to-one meeting


Teaching Schedule

  Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
Study Hours 24

  10

    8

42
Timetable (if known)              
Private Study 108
TOTAL HOURS 150

Assessment

EXAM Duration Timing
(Semester)
% of
final
mark
Resit/resubmission
opportunity
Penalty for late
submission
Notes
             
CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
(Semester)
% of
final
mark
Resit/resubmission
opportunity
Penalty for late
submission
Notes
Research Report on Semester One Project There is a resit opportunity. Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. Assessment Schedule (When) :Semester 1      40       
Students gain marks by submitting work for peer and tutor review This is an anonymous assessment. Assessment Schedule (When) :Semester 1      10       
Essay title selected based on tutorial discussions There is a resit opportunity. Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is an anonymous assessment. Assessment Schedule (When) :S  1500 words    30       
Oral presentation on summer vacation activity Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is not an anonymous assessment. Assessment Schedule (When) :Semester 2, Week 11  7 minutes + 3 minute    20       

Recommended Texts

Reading lists are managed at readinglists.liverpool.ac.uk. Click here to access the reading lists for this module.