CODE | GSC3600 | ||||||||||||
TITLE | Geosciences Field Trip | ||||||||||||
UM LEVEL | 03 - Years 2, 3, 4 in Modular Undergraduate Course | ||||||||||||
MQF LEVEL | 6 | ||||||||||||
ECTS CREDITS | 6 | ||||||||||||
DEPARTMENT | Geosciences | ||||||||||||
DESCRIPTION | This study-unit involves intensive fieldwork activity designed to train students in conducting measurements related to all fields of geosciences. The training will encompass all stages necessary for a successful survey, including the preparation, calibration, and configuration of equipment, survey planning, sensor deployment, data retrieval, as well as data processing, analysis, and application in a dedicated scientific assessment. Students will have the opportunity to apply theoretical concepts from other study-units, gain an understanding of the rationale behind specific procedures, and receive hands-on training with state-of-the-art equipment available within the Department. This study-unit is integral to the programme and will primarily involve off-campus sessions at carefully selected locations that demonstrate the practical use of the equipment. Study-Unit Aims: This study-unit provides students with practical experience in collecting and analysing scientific data across various geoscience disciplines. Through participation in team-based projects and individual research tasks, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of fieldwork, including survey design and implementation, data analysis, and the presentation of findings through written and oral communication. The unit also covers the essential principles of field surveys, such as instrument setup and calibration. Students will develop key skills in teamwork, time management, and task delegation, enhancing their ability to work both independently and collaboratively. Additionally, they will apply theoretical knowledge and technical skills acquired in other study-units to address real-world challenges. Learning Outcomes: 1. Knowledge & Understanding: By the end of the study-unit the student will be able to: - Design and carry out adaptable surveys to meet specific objectives, making adjustments based on evolving conditions and findings. - Employ standard surveying techniques and equipment to gather high-quality data across appropriate spatial and temporal scales. - Integrate diverse datasets to develop a comprehensive understanding of environmental systems. - Work collaboratively in group settings, contributing individual expertise and supporting shared outcomes. 2. Skills: By the end of the study-unit the student will be able to: - Prepare, calibrate, operate, and deploy equipment for environmental field surveys, and extract data effectively. - Collect and analyse environmental samples for selected parameters. - Document survey operations and sampling methodologies. - Write scientific reports. - Communicate and present results, including the underlying knowledge. - Work effectively as part of a team, clearly defining and fulfilling personal roles within the group. - Validate collected data by comparing it with other data sources and relevant studies in the field. Main Text/s and any supplementary readings: Main Texts: - Thomas, P.J.E., 2006. Methods of environmental data analysis. Oxford: Oxford University Press. - Ogaja, C., 2013. Principles of geospatial surveying. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press. - Carter, N. (ed.), 2012. The essential field guide to environmental studies. London: Routledge. Supplementary Readings: - Manly, S., 2008. Statistical methods in the environmental sciences. New York: Springer. - Bigg, G.R., 1996. Oceanographic instrumentation and data processing. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press - Salvanes, A.G.V., Devine, J., Jensen, K., Hestetun, J., Sjøtun, K. and Glenner, H., 2018. Marine Ecological Field Methods. West Sussex: John Wiley & Sons Ltd. - Storch H von, Zwiers FW., 1999. Statistical Analysis in Climate Research. Cambridge University Press. |
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STUDY-UNIT TYPE | Fieldwork | ||||||||||||
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The University makes every effort to ensure that the published Courses Plans, Programmes of Study and Study-Unit information are complete and up-to-date at the time of publication. The University reserves the right to make changes in case errors are detected after publication.
The availability of optional units may be subject to timetabling constraints. Units not attracting a sufficient number of registrations may be withdrawn without notice. It should be noted that all the information in the description above applies to study-units available during the academic year 2025/6. It may be subject to change in subsequent years. |