121-431 Environmental Studies Coursework

Research modules are offered in intensive mode over summer. Students should consult Dr Ray Wyatt, the modules coordinator, for timetable details by November in the year prior to their enrolment.

Admission to the postgraduate diploma or fourth year honours in environmental studies.

This subject comprises three components: a course of lectures and seminars on the principles and practice of environmental or social impact assessment; preparation of an extended review of the literature related to the subject matter of the student's individual thesis, covering both specific research in this area, and also the broader context within which the survey is situated; research methodology lectures and practical exercises covering two methodology areas chosen from the following list: Descriptive Statistics, Inferential Statistics, Geographical Information Systems, Geocomputing, Library Information Retrieval, Electronic Focus Groups, Qualitative Research Methods, Field Methods and Research Ethics. Choice of research methods must be approved by the Environmental Studies Honours Coordinator.

• understand critical theories of environmental impact assessment;

• critique Environmental Impact Statements effectively;

• apply knowledge to new situations.

Written work totalling 20 000 words comprising a research proposal of 2000 words, a literature review of 6000 words, practical exercises on research methods for two elective modules totalling 5000 words, an essay and short seminar papers totalling 5000 words, two oral presentations (totalling 40 minutes) on research proposal and research results. Attendance at the School seminar series and other prescribed seminars is compulsory, as is completion of two methodology modules. Literature review 35% (due the last week of the first semester of enrolment), research modules 20% (due during the semester), essay and seminar papers totalling 7000 words 35% (due at the end of the second semester of enrolment) and oral presentation equivalent to 2000 words 10% (in week six of the second semester of enrolment).

To be advised by the supervisor