Module overview
This module deals with contemporary issues in Ocean and Earth Science. It will develop your presentation and writing skills through directed independent study of two chosen contemporary topics. The topics are provided by the module lead and associated staff, including ‘starting references’ to direct your independent study.
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Plan, prepare and write critical syntheses of knowledge on the findings of current research in the contemporary, scientific literature in suitable for publication in Nature Reviews, adhering to scientific conventions in terms of structure, style, data presentation and referencing.
- Research, analyse and synthesise a body of knowledge on a given contemporary topic in Ocean and/or Earth Science
- Plan, prepare and present oral presentations on the findings of current research in the contemporary, scientific literature.
- Critically assess bodies of knowledge on contemporary topics in Ocean and/or Earth Science.
Syllabus
You will choose two key topics from a list of options in your specialist area. A reading list of seminal papers for these is provided as a starting list. It is expected that you expand your reading list with additional papers.
You will be required to write a critical review and make a short oral presentation on each of your selected topics at weekly seminars.
Much of the learning will be through independent reading. The breadth of subject coverage is intended to broaden and deepen your knowledge of topical issues in your specialist area, as well as to develop scientific writing and presentation skills.
To ensure that this module delivers fully on its learning outcomes, all students will be expected to attend a seminar sessions each week.
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
Seminars will be led by a variety of staff members with expertise in a range of important contemporary topics. Exact contact hours will vary, depending on the size of the selected group and topic.
General skills sessions will guide initial learning, after which research will be guided by staff members but have a strong individual component. A wide range of support is signposted for students who have further or specific learning and teaching needs. Much of the learning will be through independent study as well as peer evaluation of oral presentations at seminar-style classes.
Supplementary material: The various NOCS Seminar programmes and WUN Seminars.
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Independent Study | 108 |
| Lecture | 6 |
| Seminar | 36 |
| Total study time | 150 |
Assessment
Assessment strategy
Written reports (70%): Two "Nature Reviews" style reports on a topic which you will be expected to review, identify key scientific issues at stake and summarise arguments on both sides. You will be expected to form your own opinion on the matter.
Oral presentations (30%): Two 10 minute presentations at seminar style gatherings, on a keynote topic.
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Report | 35% |
| Report | 35% |
| Individual Oral Presentation | 15% |
| Individual Oral Presentation | 15% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External