Module: EDU5103-20 Environment and Education

Level: 5

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Chris Collier

Module Tutor Contact Details: C.Collier@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

This module explores the importance of the environment as a context for education and will support you in developing an enthusiastic and critical appreciation of the opportunities offered by the environment for stimulating a wide range of learning that not only supports the curriculum subjects of geography and science but will also engage with deeper questions about the purpose of education.

In the module you will have the opportunity to explore the importance of the environment as an educational context and critically examine the benefits of cross-curricular learning. Through a range of workshops and research into an aspect of the local environment the challenges of learning in and for the environment will be explored. The opportunities for learning offered by science and geography and their contribution to an understanding of the environment will be critically examined.

Integrated within the module are a number of sessions that enable you to gain an additional accredited qualification - the award of Outdoor Learning Practice at Level 2. A BSU DBS is required to undertake this course as you will be required to plan and lead a small number of sessions in an educational setting as part of the assessment for this award. Assessment takes place during the course and by completion of a course booklet. Time will be available within the course to make notes for and/or complete coursework in the booklet so that further time requirements will be minimal. Placements are organised by the Institute for Education Partnership Office. You should be prepared to travel up to one hour by public transport to reach your assigned setting. Placements will adhere to the current BSU Work Placement Policy.

2. Outline syllabus

The module is organised into three themes. Theme one focuses on the nature of science and geography, with an emphasis on what defines each of these subjects, the nature of learning in each and their contribution to learning about the environment. In theme 2 you will work in groups to complete an independent research project during which you will construct an understanding of a significant aspect of the geography and/or science of a chosen environmental issue or locality. Theme 3 is focused on teaching, learning and the environment. The experiences you gain from a range of environmental education providers are related to research on education and environment.

3. Teaching and learning activities

A range of approaches to teaching and learning will enable to address the aims of the module. Social-constructivist teaching approaches used in teaching science and geography in schools will be modelled in seminars and on study-trips.

There will be opportunities for metacognitive reflection during the module, e.g. during and after completion of activities that form the starting point of assessment two, the Reflective Portfolio. Metacognitive skills and attitudes (planning, monitoring progress and evaluating achievements) will be developed both independently and in collaboration with others.

Collaborative and independent research into an aspect of the local environment will lead to an assessed assignment. In planning and conducting the research and in preparing and presenting the findings in collaboration with fellow students, it is intended that you will develop an understanding of the nature of science and/or geography as disciplines of investigation and enquiry, and the skills of investigation, enquiry, analysis and interpretation.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Group Presentation with 1000-word individual report

• % Weighting: 50%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Individual Reflective Portfolio (2500 words)

• % Weighting: 50%