ENVR06059 2020 Introduction to Environmental Science

General Details

Full Title
Introduction to Environmental Science
Transcript Title
Introduction to Environmental
Code
ENVR06059
Attendance
N/A %
Subject Area
ENVR - Environmental Science
Department
ESCI - Environmental Science
Level
06 - NFQ Level 6
Credit
05 - 05 Credits
Duration
Semester
Fee
Start Term
2020 - Full Academic Year 2020-21
End Term
9999 - The End of Time
Author(s)
Ann-Marie Duddy, Frances Lucy, Guy Marsden, Noel Connaughton, Ana Vale, Lisa Cronin
Programme Membership
SG_SECOL_B07 202000 Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science with Ecology SG_SECOL_H08 202000 Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Environmental Science with Ecology SG_SECOL_C06 202000 Higher Certificate in Science in Environmental Science with Ecology SG_SECOL_B07 202100 Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science with Ecology SG_SECOL_H08 202100 Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Environmental Science with Ecology
Description

This Module investigates global, national and local environmental issues and assesses the role of Man in his environment.  It introduces the concept of social responsibility and explores the role of the environmental scientist. The module also includes practical laboratory based experience of Data Management Systems.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this module the learner will/should be able to;

1.

Communicate current environmental issues to a scientific/non-scientific audience

2.

Discuss the role of various environment-related government and non- government organisations.

3.

Identify the role of the individual in pollution and pollution prevention.

4.

Demonstrate an ability to design, compile, and interrogate a data management system.

5.

Discuss the role of the environmental scientist and their relationship with other environmental stakeholders.

6.

Prepare a scientific report based on a visit to a selected site of environmental significance (e.g. WTP, WWTP, fisheries site, waste management facility etc)

Teaching and Learning Strategies

The students will be exposed to a blend of learning activities e.g. lectures, site visits independent learning and directed learning. This approach is expected to address various student learning needs. Moodle will be used to upload educational material e.g. powerpoint presentations and supplementary reading material) and a means of assessment (e.g. uploading assignments and journals).

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Module Assessment Strategies

During the delivery of this module, self-learning is encouraged among students through the use of comprehensive on-line resources including voice-supported presentations and on-line notes. Regular summative tests are used to encourage engagement with the module, monitor progress and provide feedback. This approach enables the student to take timely corrective action, in the event of failure to achieve the required standard, before the results significantly impact on the final grade.

Repeat Assessments

Repeat assessment, where relevant, will involve assignment and/or short tests that provides evidence that the student has met the subject and topic learning outcomes to the required standard.

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Module Dependencies

Prerequisites
None
Co-requisites
None
Incompatibles
None

Indicative Syllabus

Global issues (e.g. global warming, fuel crisis, ozone depletion, deforestation, desertification, pressure on water resources, etc.)

Role of environment-related government and non-government organisations.

Resource demands and waste streams from centres of population. 

Profile of an environmental scientist and relationship with other environmental stakeholders.

 

Coursework & Assessment Breakdown

Coursework & Continuous Assessment
100 %

Coursework Assessment

Title Type Form Percent Week Learning Outcomes Assessed
1 Short answer questions Coursework Assessment Assessment 30 % OnGoing 1,2,3,5
2 DBMS Test 1 Coursework Assessment Closed Book Exam 15 % Week 6 4
3 Site visit report Coursework Assessment Written Report/Essay 10 % Week 9 6
4 DBMS Test 2 Coursework Assessment Closed Book Exam 15 % Week 12 4
5 Poster presentation Coursework Assessment Assignment 30 % Week 13 1,2,5

Full Time Mode Workload


Type Location Description Hours Frequency Avg Workload
Lecture Flat Classroom (lectures and site visits) 2 Weekly 2.00
Practical / Laboratory Computer Laboratory Data management Systems 2 Weekly 2.00
Independent Learning UNKNOWN Research, reflection and reading course notes) 3 Weekly 3.00
Total Full Time Average Weekly Learner Contact Time 4.00 Hours

Module Resources

Non ISBN Literary Resources

Gregory K., Anthony, I.,  Brazel, J., Day, W,  Keller, E.A , Yanez-Arancibia, A,  Sylvester, A.G.  (2008)  Environmental Sciences: A Student's Companion, Sage Publishing

Pearce, F. (2007)  When the Rivers Run Dry: Water-the Defining Crisis of the Twenty-first Century. Beacon Press

Huber, P.W. and Mills, M.P (2005) ‘The Bottomless Well- the twilight of fuel, the virtue of waste and why we will never run out of energy'  Technology and Engineering

Spray, S.L. (2006)  Tropical Deforestation . Rowman and Littlefield Publishers

Geist, Helmut (2005) The Causes and Progression of Desertification.  Ashgate Publishing Limited

McMullan, R. (2002) Environmental Science in Builings, 5th Edition.  Palgrave MacMillan, Hampshire, England

Other Resources

Access to computer suite for two hours practical each week

Bus trip

Additional Information

None