KE4014 - Introduction to Physical Environments

You will learn through lectures, experiential activities and independent learning. The lectures will cover the key definitions, theories, concepts, applications and processes that will give you the background knowledge to undertake the guided independent reading. Using the Electronic Learning Platform and a dedicated electronic reading list you will broaden your understanding of the Earth system that will enable you to confidently apply this to the other modules during your degree programme. Experiential activities will integrate learning between individual spheres.

Support will be provided through:

• Formal lectures on Earth System topics
• Practice tests designed for each topic block on the module
• Feedback on exams enabling you to improve your preparation/revision techniques and performance
• Laboratory and field activities to integrate learning from individual spheres
• Access to all learning materials (lecture slides, practical materials, online resources, electronic reading lists) via eLP.

Teaching staff operate an ‘open door’ policy for students meaning you can approach them anytime during normal office hours, or via email, to answer questions, receive
feedback and support your learning on the module.

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.

Knowledge & Understanding:
• MLO 1: Identify and understand a broad range of Earth System components and processes over varying time scales.
• MLO 2: Identify how processes within different components of the Earth System interact

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
• MLO 3: Develop independence in learning through guided reading and use of feedback from exams.

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
• MLO 4: Develop informed concern about the Earth and its people through an awareness of human modifications and impacts to the physical environment

The module is assessed by one multiple choice exam held at the end of the semester.

Your tutors will be looking for, and developing, your knowledge of the Earth System both from the lectures provided and from the guided independent study.

During the semester and well before the exam you will have the opportunity to participate in a series of practice tests within the lectures. Formative feedback will be given in class to the whole group and you will have the opportunity to speak to module tutors on topics that you found challenging. With this support you will develop your academic abilities and confidence in applying your knowledge, and be in a good position
to successfully complete the final exam. (MLOs 1,2,3 & 4)

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In this module you will learn about the Earth from a holistic perspective. The module will cover a broad range of topics in physical geography to give you a deeper understanding of the interrelated nature of natural processes and systems operating on Earth today, and in the past. The module will also cover human interactions and impacts on natural systems and processes and facilitate you to develop an informed understanding about the Earth and its people. As one of the core Level 4 modules you will interact with a team of research active staff, which will introduce you to research-rich learning at Northumbria University, provide you with the background knowledge and confidence to apply this to all other modules you will study.