KE6036 - Enhancing Geographic Skills Through Fieldwork

This module takes an experiential learning approach. You will engage in residential fieldwork activities, workshops, and interactive exercises that are designed to both challenge your intellectual capacity and stimulate creativity. To maximise learning, you will be encouraged to reflect on the knowledge gained from lectures and readings and integrate this with your field observations and experiences. The module harnesses the power of technology, making use of relevant software for data collection and analysis. The module includes feedback sessions that provide an opportunity to discuss and evaluate your progress, allowing for continuous improvement. Staff will be actively involved in these sessions, guiding your learning and providing constructive feedback. Your comprehension and application of the subject matter will be evaluated through an oral presentation of your data collection design and a final written report. These assessments explicitly link to the learning outcomes, giving a direct relation between what you learn and how you are assessed. Independent learning will be an essential part of this module, facilitating critical thinking and fostering a proactive approach to learning. This module will immerse you in real-world scenarios, which will be invaluable in furthering your practical understanding and interpretation of environmental concepts. The practical nature of the module helps you to apply theoretical ideas in real-world contexts and promotes the development of creative problem-solving skills. You will be guided to identify physical geographic problems, analyse them from various perspectives, create potential solutions and communicate your findings effectively.

The academic support in this module is multifaceted and tailored to enhance your learning experience. A key component of this is the dedicated teaching team that will facilitate your learning journey. Staff will be available for one-on-one consultations during their office hours and can provide additional support and guidance as needed. We also encourage an open dialogue during lectures and fieldwork to create an inclusive learning environment where every question is valued.

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
(Reading List service online guide for academic staff this containing contact details for the Reading List team – http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/readinglists)

Knowledge & Understanding:
Module learning objective 1: Critically evaluate advanced concepts, methods, and theories in physical geography, and demonstrate an understanding that emphasises the applicability of these methods in addressing modern environmental challenges.

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
Module learning objective 2: Design and execute a comprehensive research project, employing advanced methodologies to investigate real-world environmental scenarios.

Module learning objective 3. Demonstrate mastery in collecting, interpreting, critically analysing, and presenting complex data with professional proficiency.

Module learning objective 4: Develop multifaceted team-based projects, fostering an environment that enhances collaborative decision-making

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA)
Module learning objective 5: Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of global, regional and local environmental challenges, adopting a proactive stance to initiate and embed ethical considerations and cross-cultural competencies within personal and professional realms.

During fieldwork, your team will present your data collection strategy, testing your ability to apply theoretical concepts and practical techniques (MLO 2, 3). Staff will then provide formative feedback which you can use to improve the final submission. Upon returning from the field, you will be asked to write an individual professional report in which you will critically discuss an environmental issue investigated as part of your fieldwork (MLO 1, 2), and propose sustainable and practical solutions (MLO3). This assessment is summative and will test your understanding of the subject matter, as well as your ability to communicate effectively and apply critical thinking (MLO4).

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This module is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of essential concepts, contemporary issues, and practical applications in the field of physical geography and environmental science. Through a residential fieldwork which is supplemented by a blend of lectures, workshops, and independent study, you will learn to apply theoretical concepts in real-world settings, enhancing your problem-solving skills and ability to communicate effectively. Extensive academic support, tailored to your individual needs, will ensure a supportive and inclusive learning environment. Upon completion of the module, you'll be able to analyse environmental issues from various perspectives and propose practical solutions. You'll also develop a strong personal interest in global and local environmental issues and sustainability. Real-world scenarios will provide practical insights and foster the development of creative problem-solving skills. The assessment consists of a professional report on a fieldwork-based environmental analysis, testing your comprehension, application, and ability to propose sustainable solutions.