Module GEOG4018: ADVANCED METHODS IN PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY

Department: Geography

GEOG4018: ADVANCED METHODS IN PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY

Prerequisites

• None

Corequisites

• None

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None

Aims

• To provide training in advanced research methods and practical experience of their application
• To develop advanced knowledge to facilitate the critical selection of appropriate research methods and be aware of their limitations
• To enable students to apply the skills and methods acquired in the compulsory section of the module (Part 1) in the design and execution of an advanced methods research project [POD] (Part 2) in physical geography
• To demonstrate mastery of techniques and methods through effective written and oral communication

Content

• PART 1: Theory and Practise
• A. Materials and Sediments
• 1. Theoretical framework for examining sediment and material properties
• 2. Field sampling of sediments, geotechnical samples and environmental waters
• 3. Core logging, sample preparation and analysis
• 4. Measuring sediment size and shape: partical size analysis, shape analysis
• 5. Geotechnical testing of materials
• B. Morphology and Mapping
• 1. Basic field mapping using a hand-held GPS and air photos (base maps)
• 2. Advanced survey mapping GPS and terrestrial laser scanning
• 3. Photogrammetry and aerial photograph analysis
• 4. Capturing 3-d morphology and creating DEMs
• 5. Interfacing field data with GIS
• C. Modelling and Data Handling
• 1. Data structures and numerical data handling conventions
• 2. A short primer in statistical methods and regression
• 3. Quantitative analysis of morphology, assessment of topographic change
• 4. Characterising fluxes - introduction to diffusion, sediment flux and rating curves
• 5. Introduction to landscape modelling/1-d river modelling/1-d hillslope modelling
• PART 2: Application and Mastery
• [Each student will complete a Personalised Orientated Design (POD) which will be completed as a self-paced study and supported by staff advisory meetings. Each POD must include some elements from two of the main sections (A, B, C) in Part 1]. PODs provide bespoke projects which enhance specific knowledge and skills but retain a structured research framework. Thus PODs deliver specific skills but also provide a generic framework which can be transposed on other projects
• 1. Designing, structuring and delivering a research project (Group)
• 2. Advisory 1 – Formative feedback on POD proposal (individual)
• 3. Advisory 2 – Interim report and critique [500 words] (individual)
• 4. Advisory 3 – Formative presentations (Group)
• 5. Oral presentation – technical briefing on key method / technique used in POD

Learning Outcomes

• Detailed understanding and mastery of the range of advanced methods and practises used in Physical Geography research
• Advanced knowledge and understanding of the critical selection of appropriate methods for a particular research problem theory and methods
• Advanced understanding of data acquisition, analysis, and presentation of physical geography data and effective integration

• Ability to place research within a wider academic context, and then to identify and develop an appropriate framework to carry out the research
• Critical appreciation of specific areas of Physical Geography literature
• Application of methods in specific geomorphological environments: glacial, fluvial, hillslopes
• Advanced awareness of health and safety issues in the application of research methods

• Ability to write an advanced level methodological report
• Ability to independently manage a research project (under guidance from a supervisor), from the formulation of research questions, to the collection and analysis of data, to the presentation of the report
• Advanced quantitative data analysis and modelling appropriate to the topic of the research
• Promote effective communication through in written and oral communication

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• Part 1 will be taught in three blocks (A, B, C). Each block will consist of an introductory lecture framing the scope of the block. This will be followed by a series of staff-led practical sessions. Students will be directed to relevant literature and the practicalities of undertaking key methods. Formative feedback will be given to the group following each practical. The student will produce a practical file which contains ALL the practical work and will select three project reports (5 page each - one selected from each block)
• Part 2 is focussed on a self paced learning project (Personalised Orientated Design, POD) which is guided by staff advice. PODs provide bespoke projects which enhance specific knowledge and skills but retain a structured research framework. Thus PODs deliver specific skills but also provide a generic framework which can be transposed on other projects
• Teaching will include group sessions (overview of work and presentations) and individual advisory meetings when formative feedback will be given. Each student will complete a Personalised Orientated Design (POD) which will be completed as a self-paced study and supported by staff advisory meetings. Each POD must include some elements from two of the main sections (A, B, C) in Part 1. Assessment will be by means of a report of no more than 3000 words and a 20 minute oral presentation (accompanied by a technical briefing sheet) on the key method/technique used in the Part 2 project

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

Part 1 – formative feedback will be provided on each practical. This will be done orally (direct communication to individuals) but also to the group as a whole through feedback sheets posted on DUO. Part 2 – formative assessment will take three forms: Formative feedback on POD proposal Formative assessment of interim report and critique Formative presentations

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University