Teaching, learning and assessment methods
The complexity and difficulty of what you will learn, and therefore need to demonstrate for the purposes of assessment, increase from Level 1 to Level 3. You are encouraged to progress from one level to the next in a logical fashion.
Knowledge and understanding is acquired from specially prepared teaching materials using a variety of learning approaches which may include self-assessment and in-text questions, DVD materials, reference texts, computer-aided learning packages, directed reading, online forums and web-based resources. All of these resources are generated with reference to the most recently available scientific research. Your understanding of acquiring, interpreting and analysing data is further developed by fieldwork and laboratory work at residential schools and independent project work, and in some cases by means of specimens and equipment provided in kits for home study.
You will work independently with the teaching materials, but are encouraged to form self-help groups with other students, communicating face-to-face or by telephone, email and online forums. Associate lecturers (local part-time tutors) will support your learning in tutorials and day schools organised regionally and at residential schools.
Skills are developed throughout the programme in parallel with knowledge and understanding. Some modules, notably those based on residential schools, are more practically oriented than others and also offer the most opportunities to interact with fellow students.
Assessment is by a combination of tutor-marked assignments requiring answers ranging from short to essay length, to project reports, computer-marked assignments, three-hour written examinations, project work and tutor appraisal during residential schools. In addition, you will have many opportunities for self-assessment, within module texts, on CD-ROMs or DVDs and online.
Field work is an especially important component of environmental science and you will receive training in a variety of field-based methods, including ecological sampling, hydrological studies, surveying and geomorphology. At Level 3 you will have the opportunity to develop these skills within an independent field-based project.