2024/25 Undergraduate Module Catalogue

SOEE5400M Environmental Research Project

45 Credits Class Size: 30

Module manager: Piroska Lorinczi
Email: P.Lorinczi@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun) View Timetable

Year running 2024/25

Module replaces

ENVI5400M

This module is not approved as a discovery module

Objectives

On completion of this module students will have developed original subject-specific knowledge in their chosen area, and written it up in the form of a research-based dissertation. They should be in a position to contribute to related critical debate through the production of a significant scientific document. They should be able: to recognise and use successfully subject-specific theories, paradigms, concepts and principles; to analyse, synthesise and summarise information critically and with skill; to collect and integrate several lines of evidence, to formulate and test hypothesis,; to recognise any moral and ethical issues relevant to their subject of research and recognise the need for professional codes of conduct, where appropriate; to draw meaningful and insightful generalisations and implications from their specific findings; to plan conduct and report on an original investigation; to undertake field, laboratory or other practical investigations in a responsible and safe manner; to reference other work appropriately; to communicate their finds effectively in written form. Over all the research outlined in the dissertation should be on the way to be considered for publication in a peer reviewed journal. In addition students will have developed further skills in self-management (working independently, time management and organisational skills), in working towards academic targets, and in adopting a flexible approach to study and work. Skills in presenting scientific information both through posters to a scientific audience and to the public through a public engagement report (new paper article, SEE outreach material etc).

Syllabus

Individual research programme on an approved topic. For each individual student the topic must be specifically commensurate with the title of their degree programme. Topic formulation; background reading; methodology; empirical evidence; analysis; findings; evaluation.

Teaching Methods

Delivery type Number Length hours Student hours
Workshop 3 1 3
Poster session 1 3 3
Supervision 5 1 5
Fieldwork 4 7.5 30
Lecture 5 1 5
Private study hours 404
Total Contact hours 46
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) 450

Private study

NB The average field / lab work time for the project is 30 hours.
Project write up: 404 hours

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

Via advisory sessions with project supervisor, including formal check on milestones (topic formulation and progress report), and general advice on draft extracts.

Methods of Assessment

Coursework
Assessment type Notes % of formal assessment
Group Project/Project/Dissertation 14,000 word written dissertation 90
Essay Public understanding of science essay / article (2,000 words) 10
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) 100

Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated

Reading List

The reading list is available from the Library website

Last updated: 4/29/2024

Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team