ENVR09036 2019 Environmental Systems
Full Title
Environmental Systems
Transcript Title
Environmental Systems
Code
ENVR09036
Attendance
N/A %
Subject Area
ENVR - Environmental Science
Department
ESCI - Environmental Science
Level
09 - Level 9
Credit
10 - 10 Credits
Duration
Semester
Fee
€
Start Term
2019 - Full Academic Year 2019-20
End Term
9999 - The End of Time
Author(s)
Ann-Marie Duddy, Margaret Savage, Cait Coyle, Declan Feeney
Programme Membership
SG_SENVP_O09 201900 Postgraduate Diploma in Science in Environmental Protection
SG_SENVP_M09 201900 Master of Science in Environmental Protection
Description
This module describes living and non‑living components of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems which are used to interpret the human impact on ecological systems at both local, national and international levels. It will provide the student with a deeper understanding of the role ecological processes play in regulating and managing the earth's resources. It will provide a comprehensive understanding of the ecological value of systems provided by natural capital and the earth's ecosystem services.
Learning Outcomes
On completion of this module the learner will/should be able to;
1.
Evaluate the facts, concepts and principles associated with geological and edaphic environmental processes.
2.
Evaluate and interpret the fundamentals and interactions of a broad range of natural ecosystems (e.g. terrestrial, freshwater, estuarine, coastal and marine ecosystems and habitats)
3.
Devise and execute an independent assessment of environmental impacts associated with anthropogenic activities and pollution pathways in a natural ecosystem (e.g. river system, peatland, coastal sand dune system)
4.
Apply concepts and skills to interpret potential and actual disturbances to ecosystems on both local and global scales
5.
Appraise current key issues impacting on ecosystems at a global level
6.
Appraise and evaluate the application of current and proposed environmental legislation in the management of environmental systems
Teaching and Learning Strategies
This module will be delivered part‑time. This will include lectures, practicals, and site visits augmented by independent learning and directed learning. A two‑day workshop will provide practical experience of instrumentation. This approach is expected to address student learning needs. Moodle will be used as a repository of educational resources and as a means of assessment (e.g. quizzes, uploading assignments and journals).
Module Assessment Strategies
This module is 100% Continuous Assessment.
There will be a number of MCQs given during the module. Practice‑based assignments will be given with components addressing the topics covered in the syllabus.
Repeat Assessments
Repeat Continuous Assessment and/or Final Exam
Indicative Syllabus
The Earth and Earth surface processes
Soils science and soil management
Introduction to ecology, biodiversity, ecosystem services and natural capitol
Ecosystem processes, including an introduction to terrestrial, freshwater, estuarine and marine ecosystems
The application of legislation and other tools and measures in the management of ecosystems
Anthropogenic activities, climate change and its impacts on a range of ecosystem
Biodiversity and ecosystem conservation management
Invasive species, threats, impacts and mitigation measures
Coursework & Assessment Breakdown
Coursework & Continuous Assessment
100 %
Coursework Assessment
| Title | Type | Form | Percent | Week | Learning Outcomes Assessed | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Multiple Choice Quizz (MCQ) Session | Coursework Assessment | Open Book Exam | 10 % | Week 4 | 1,2,5 |
| 2 | Written Report - Critical Evaluation of Human Impacts on Ecosystems | Coursework Assessment | Assignment | 30 % | Week 6 | 1,2,4 |
| 3 | Individual Assignment for Earth Science | Coursework Assessment | Assignment | 20 % | Week 10 | 1,5 |
| 4 | Environmental Systems Assignment | Coursework Assessment | Project | 40 % | Week 12 | 3,4,6 |
Online Learning Mode Workload
| Type | Location | Description | Hours | Frequency | Avg Workload |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture | Not Specified | On Line Lecture / Self Study Manual | 2.0 | Weekly | 2.00 |
| Workshop / Seminar | Not Specified | Site Visit, Lectures, Practical | 7.5 | Once Per Semester | 0.50 |
| Directed Learning | Not Specified | Directed Learning | 1.5 | Weekly | 1.50 |
| Independent Learning | Not Specified | Self Study | 10.0 | Weekly | 10.00 |
Total Online Learning Average Weekly Learner Contact Time 2.50 Hours
Required & Recommended Book List
Recommended Reading
Earth W.H. Freeman.
Earth W.H. Freeman.
Recommended Reading
Methods of Environmental and Social Impact Assessment Taylor & Francis Ltd
Methods of Environmental and Social Impact Assessment Taylor & Francis Ltd
Recommended Reading
Introduction To Environmental Impact Assessment Taylor & Francis Ltd
Introduction To Environmental Impact Assessment Taylor & Francis Ltd
Recommended Reading
Natural Capital : Theory and Practice of Mapping Ecosystem Services Oxford University Press
Natural Capital : Theory and Practice of Mapping Ecosystem Services Oxford University Press
Recommended Reading
Climate Change : What Everyone Needs to Know Oxford University Press Inc
Climate Change : What Everyone Needs to Know Oxford University Press Inc
Module Resources
Journal Resources
See Module Moodle page for resources as directed by the lecturer.
URL Resources
See Module Moodle page for resources as directed by the lecturer.
Other Resources
See Module Moodle page for resources as directed by the lecturer.
Additional Information
See Module Moodle page for resources as directed by the lecturer.