6B005B - Human Evolution and the Anthropocene 01 Sep 2027 - 31 Aug 2033 | Version 0
Associated Module Information
| Module Code: | 6B005B | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Module Title: | Human Evolution and the Anthropocene | ||
| Faculty: | Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Science | ||
| Faculty Group: | Applied Science | ||
| Faculty Sub Group: | Biology and Chemistry | ||
| Module Leader: | Tracie McKinney | ||
| Module Team: | Natalie Lubbock, Rebecca Lakin | ||
| First Intended Intake: | SEP 2027 | Final Year of Intake: | 2032 |
| Date Closed: | |||
| Credit Value: | 30 | Credit Level: | 6 |
| Language: | English | ||
| Percentage of Module Taught in Welsh: | 33 | ||
| Equivalent Module: | |||
| HECOS codes: | 100858 - evolution | ||
| HECOS Code Weighting: | 100 | ||
Document Version Information
| Version | 0 |
|---|---|
| Valid From | 01 Sep 2027 |
| Valid To | 31 Aug 2033 |
Module Aims
The main aims of the module are:
To explore the evolutionary history of the human lineage and the evidence used to reconstruct humanity's past.
To examine humanity's place within the natural world as both a product of evolutionary and ecological processes and a major driver of environmental change.
To consider the impacts of humans on the Earth system and explore debates surrounding the concept and significance of the Anthropocene.
Content Summary
This final-year module brings together the human and non-human elements studied across the course creating a unique, integrated perspective for the BSc Biology cohort.
You will place humans in a broader evolutionary context by studying paleoanthropology and human behavioural ecology to consider how we are like other animals and how we are unique.
In the paleoanthropology portion of the module, you will learn about our ancient primate ancestors and the evolutionary pressures that led to our species’ two most distinctive traits – bipedalism (walking upright) and encephalization (big brains). You will debate conflicting models for the origin of our species and discuss the meaning of “human nature”.
With the Human Behavioural Ecology portion of the module, you will consider how Homo sapiens interacts with the environment, and the roles we play in our ecological communities. Special attention will be given to the development of agricultural and settled civilization, and you will look at the importance of cultural variation and sociopolitical systems on how we relate to the natural world.
As part of our exploration of humanity’s role in nature, this module examines the concept of the “Anthropocene” - a proposed geological epoch starting around 10,000 years ago with the development of agriculture. While “Anthropocene” as a geological epoch remains controversial, the term was proposed to acknowledge the incredible impact our species has on our planet. Through the module, students will critically examine this concept and explore the ways humans, wildlife, and the environment are entwined.
Learning and Teaching Methods
| Activity Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Practical classes and workshops | 56 |
| Digital Guided Learning | 10.5 |
| Independent Study? | 133.5 |
| Formative Assessment | 40 |
| Summative Assessment | 60 |
| Total Hours Selected | 300 |
Learning Outcomes
| # | Learning Outcome |
|---|---|
| LO1 | Critically evaluate the scientific evidence for the origin of our species, and communicate possible explanations for controversies or gaps in our current understanding of human evolution |
| LO2 | Critically appraise the concept of the ‘Anthropocene’ through an understanding of human evolution, human behavioural ecology, and modern socio-political systems |
Module Requisites
N/A
Assessment Criteria
| Assessment Category | Assessment Type | Description | Duration | Word Count | Weight (%) | Best of? | Pass Mark |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Synchronous Onsite Assessment | Classroom Test - Time Constrained (Onsite) 1 | This in-class, unseen essay examination will ensure students master the theory and background information necessary to successfully engage with critique and debate throughout the module. | 180 | N/A | 50 | No | 40 |
| Asynchronous Assessment | Student Choice | The student choice assignment allows students to delve into one area of the module in more depth. In addition to choice of topics, the students will have the opportunity to choose the format of their assessment, which will be linked to the conference-style module conclusion session in the final week. Format possibilities include a traditional oral presentation, scientific poster, or written report, as well as more creative outlets like a vlog or podcast. | 0 | 3000 | 50 | No | 40 |
Assessment Matrix
| Assessment Type | Learning Outcomes | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| LO1 | LO2 | ||
| Classroom Test - Time Constrained (Onsite) 1 | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Student Choice | ✔ | ✔ | |