This module explores the status and dynamics of the built and/or natural environment for a defined location in Ireland using a research approach. The aim of this module is to introduce students to the formal process of research project planning and management with particular emphasis on the need to integrate task requirements and resource availability.
This is an introductory level research focused module. The module is designed to provide a research foundation to students of environmental management, planning and allied disciplines. The module allows students to define a research topic and an associated set of objectives within the general context of environmental management and planning. The module requires that they develop and implement a strategy or plan to address these objectives in the context of a defined field setting. This provides students with the opportunity to practice a range of basic fieldwork techniques for collecting and managing data relevant to the research topic. It also provides students with the opportunity to analyses data collected and to present findings in a professional format.
This module integrates with other modules in a number of areas and provides a practical opportunity for students to use and develop skills and knowledge gained across the first year programme.
The module will address:
- How to characterise the range of elements/components within the natural and built environments;
- How to define the domain of research in a complex and spatially dispersed setting;
- The theory and context of research design;
- Defining the data needs and requirements appropriate to the project specifications;
- How to select appropriate mechanisms for gathering data and the way data requirements integrate with the research approach;
- Undertaking the adaptation and use of various methods of data classification with respect to the inherent diversity of the natural and built environments;
- The concept and design of environmental indicators and indicator themes or sets of indicators;
- Developing research strategies that facilitate investigation and analysis using environmental indicators and indicator themes;
- Data collection strategies and the use of appropriate techniques in data analysis;
- How to summarise findings and present results and conclusions, both in writing and orally;
- Development of skills in the use of published data sources, the use of college libraries, the National Library and local libraries as well as the introduction of computer systems to record and present geographical data.
A variety of teaching methods will be used including lectures, tutorials, presentation sessions, discussion groups and field trips. Comment and feedback will be provided to students throughout the course of their field, assignment, laboratory, class and group related work. It is not possible to complete this module without attending the complete series of field trips.
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Other Assessment(s) | 100 |