GV2FCC-Geography & Environmental Science Field Class 2

Module Provider: Geography and Environmental Science
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:5
Terms in which taught: Spring / Summer term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites: GV2RTS Research Training for Geography and Environmental Science or GV2LCC Loddon Catchment Consultancy
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2021/2

Module Convenor: Prof Nicholas Branch
Email: n.p.branch@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:
A residential field class is a compulsory component of the Part 2 Geography programme. This field class module is based in south west Crete and takes place April/May 2016. The focus is on group work and student-centred analysis of specific research problems. A variety of field research techniques are applied in order to reinforce subject knowledge and develop transferable skills. The highest standards of conduct and professionalism are expected from all participants.

Aims:
- To apply subject knowledge to solving problems in the field.
- To use a range of field equipment including GPS recorders to take measurements and record observations.
- To be innovative in reporting and displaying field observation, including the use of different types of IT.
- To develop transferable skills, including team-working.

Assessable learning outcomes:
- accurately and methodically collect, organise, and analyse field data

- interpret field evidence in the context of wider academic literature

- demonstrate good collaborative team-working skills, including planning work programme and selection of appropriate methods of working.

- personally reflect on and discuss field work experiences.
.

Additional outcomes:
Fieldwork necessitates teamwork and also requires a high level of ingenuity and tenacity. Students will begin to develop these skills through working in teams directly gathering field data together with the critical analysis, interpretation and presentation of the results.

Outline content:
Academic preparation day in Reading followed by field trip in Crete.

Depending on weather and local conditions, field days typically include:
- Illingas Gorge (flood analysis; climatology)
- Aradena Gorge
- Loutro - Chora Sfakion coastal footpath (geomorphology, vegetation)
- Loutro and Chora Sfakion (tectonic uplift; social issues; tourism)
- Samaria Gorge (environmental management; tourism)

with continuing small group independent researc h work throughout the week.

Please note that attendance at all preparation sessions is a pre-requisite for going on the field trip to Crete. Failure to attend these sessions will result in a mark of zero for the module.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
Prior to the field trip students will attend the preparation day involving introductory lectures, videos and group-based exercise. During the field trip, students will use basic field equipment for taking observations and measurements. Students will work in small groups and complete a team project as part of the assessment.

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Lectures		5
Tutorials			2
Demonstration		5
Fieldwork			70
Guided independent study:		35	83
Total hours by term		45	155
Total hours for module	200

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Report	80
Project output other than dissertation	20

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Formative assessment methods:

Penalties for late submission:

The Support Centres will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:

• where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;
• where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: http://www.reading.ac.uk/web/FILES/qualitysupport/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Assessment requirements for a pass:
A mark of 40% overall

Reassessment arrangements:
Re-submission of all or some of the assignments or the setting and completion of an alternative assignment

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

1) Required text books: 

2) Specialist equipment or materials: 

3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear: 

4) Printing and binding: 

5) Computers and devices with a particular specification: 

6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence: Students will be required to contribute to the costs of travel, accommodation and food on the fieldclass. In 2016 this was less than £350.

Last updated: 2 December 2021