Module:

Level: 7

Credit Value: 60

Module Tutor: Ian Thornhill

Module Tutor Contact Details: i.thornhill@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module

This module provides training in post-graduate research skills in the subject area of Environmental Management.

Key topics include, where appropriate: effective sourcing and review of the literature; choice of methodologies and technologies; safe and effective field and laboratory working; appropriate data collection, management, analysis, interpretation and presentation; written, graphic, visual and oral communication employing standard conventions; synthesis of results with published work and critical review of the research undertaken.

This module provides you with the opportunity to undertake an individual investigation in an approved aspect of Environmental Management under the supervision of a member of the teaching staff. The potential range of subject areas is wide. If you are working in this field, then it could be related to an existing project. Alternatively, we have links with industry partners through whom industry-related projects can be developed.

Alternatively, topics can be based on any aspect of Environmental Management, from a review of sustainability principles, to testing and evaluating a specific methodology or the effectiveness of an aspect of environmental communication.

The research experience offers you an opportunity to formatively evaluate your skills and development as personal development planning is integrated into the module.

2. Outline Syllabus & Teaching & Learning Methods

The process of research will be progressive and reflective, from an initial proposal to a final research output, with feedback at intervals from staff and peers.

The module begins with a briefing session with the Module Leader who will outline essential elements of the module to you. There will also be seminar/workshop sessions with library and careers staff. Thereafter, you will work independently with the help of a supervisor.

You will be required to complete a risk assessment form and possibly an ethical risk assessment form before commencing any practical or field work. Your research may require you to generate primary data, through fieldwork, archival or laboratory investigation or contact with external organisations as appropriate. Alternatively your research may also be a reconsideration and re-evaluation of secondary sources, through close, critical readings of existing documentary texts or archives. High standards of scholarship are required of all types of research projects.

You will submit a research proposal soon after starting your project and, having obtained your results, but prior to submission, you will present a seminar paper on your aims, approach and findings to an audience of staff and students. The former will ensure you have devised an appropriate research programme. The latter will provide feedback on your work prior to completing your thesis. The presentation will also provide you with an opportunity to reflect on your skill and knowledge development and on the opportunities to apply your findings as an environmental management professional.

The research will be presented both as a conventionally structured thesis and orally in a conference setting. In some instances, another publication format will be more appropriate and this will need to be agreed with the supervisor and module leader in advance of publication.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Coursework
• Description: Research Portfolio
• % Weighting: 100%