ES2S208 - Research Methods in Natural History 01 Jul 2022 - 31 Aug 2028 | Version 1
Associated Module Information
| Module Code: | ES2S208 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Module Title: | Research Methods in Natural History | ||
| Faculty: | Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Science | ||
| Faculty Group: | Applied Sciences | ||
| Faculty Sub Group: | Earth and Environment | ||
| Module Leader: | Ian Skilling | ||
| Module Team: | Amelia Grass, Marios Miliorizos, Emma Higgins, Richard Penrose | ||
| First Intended Intake: | SEP 2027 | Final Year of Intake: | 2027 |
| Date Closed: | |||
| Credit Value: | 20 | Credit Level: | 5 |
| Language: | English | ||
| Percentage of Module Taught in Welsh: | 0 | ||
| Equivalent Module: | |||
| HECOS codes: | 100469 - environmental management | 101318 - biodiversity conservation | |
| HECOS Code Weighting: | 50 | 50 | |
Document Version Information
| Version | 1 |
|---|---|
| Valid From | 01 Jul 2022 |
| Valid To | 31 Aug 2028 |
Module Aims
The module will explore the principles of scientific research and communication, which are fundamental skills in the Natural History discipline.
To develop subject-specific skills using meaningful examples in experimental tasks, underpinned with theoretical content, including subjects such as behavioural sciences, genetics, ecological principles, field biology and field geology
The module will include aspects of statistical analysis, data handling, experimental design, and presentation of scientific findings, which are fundamental skills in Natural History research.
Content Summary
Introduction to a range of research methods in natural history.
The scientific method and experimental design.
Critical assessment of the primary scientific literature.
Developing skills in writing scientific reports.
Introduction to statistics relevant to Natural History.
Introduction to using R for data handling and analysis.
Understanding the basic parameters of behavioural ecology.
Introduction to Genetics and bioinformatics.
Presentation of scientific research and science communication.
Practical skills in the construction and representation of fossil and rock sequences, the quantification of these sequences in terms of Earth processes and palaeoenvironments
Learning and Teaching Methods
| Activity Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Lecture | 16 |
| Practical classes and workshops | 27 |
| Fieldwork | 14 |
| Independent Study | 93 |
| Directed Study | 50 |
| Total Hours Selected | 200 |
Learning Outcomes
| # | Learning Outcome |
|---|---|
| LO1 | To develop and use systematic approaches, scientific methodologies, and information/data analysis skills to provide the solution of problems within the Natural History subject area. |
| LO2 | To develop the ability to plan, research, apply and critically evaluate both qualitatively and quantitatively, to create original solutions to problems and projects within the subject area. |
Module Requisites
N/A
Assessment Criteria
| Assessment Category | Assessment Type | Description | Duration | Word Count | Weight (%) | Best of? | Pass Mark |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Asynchronous Assessment | Practical Coursework 1 (Asynch) | Portfolio of practical reports | 0 | 4000 | 100 | No | 40 |
Assessment Matrix
| Assessment Type | Learning Outcomes | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| LO1 | LO2 | ||
| Practical Coursework 1 (Asynch) | ✘ | ✘ | |