Aims

To introduce students to fundamental principles of field sampling methods, field observations and recording, whilst using shore-based exercises and research vessel work to measure environmental and biological characteristics of estuarine and coastal environments.

To introduce standard laboratory procedures applicable to a wide range of biological and environmental analyses

To acquire the practical skills underpinning these laboratory procedures, and develop awareness of good laboratory practice regarding health and safety

To give a first introduction to experimental design via field and laboratory sessions

To provide opportunities to apply data visualisation, numeracy & analysis skills from NES1504 Study Skills to solve a diverse range of problems from contrasting field and laboratory settings

To acquire skills in recording and presenting scientific information

Outline Of Syllabus

This module provides a sound basis for the understanding of fundamental field and laboratory methods in marine science and equips our students with the practical skills required for biological and environmental surveys and laboratory analyses.

All students will:

- attend a boat work session on our research vessel which will introduce them to the full range of sampling equipment in a small group setting and provide opportunities for practical exercises on board

- attend two intensive field weeks (1 per semester) which will give practical introductions into survey design and techniques, design and application of keys, qualitative and quantitative analysis of survey data, and taxonomy and anatomy of coastal marine organisms in a diverse range of local environments

- take part in laboratory sessions designed to teach the practical skills required to identify bacteria, phyto- & zoo-plankton, and macroalgae, examine the internal anatomy of key marine organisms, culture marine bacteria and phytoplankton and studying their growth physiology, and carry out a diverse range of seawater analyses

- complete a laboratory exercise on experimental design and blind sample analysis

The module will include lectures and a range of field, boat and laboratory activities with small group teaching elements. All field, boat and laboratory activities will practise observational, note taking and reporting skills using a field and laboratory notebook.

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Lectures and module talks will introduce the students to the format of the module and outline expectations, including assessment requirements.

Lectures, practicals, fieldwork and workshop sessions are designed to introduce students to key concepts and allow them the opportunity to develop expertise in a range of fundamental scientific skills, including using scientific equipment, and collecting, interpreting and presenting scientific information.

Structured research and reading activities will allow students to engage with online content to prepare for taught sessions.

Drop-in sessions will be conducted following summative practical sessions to provide students with opportunity to discuss their assessment and address queries.

Students will practice skills through directed supporting information to consolidate their learning by guided independent study, in particular via online material for practical preparation and subsequent data analysis. Students will be encouraged to become more independent in their learning at this stage in their programmes, developing key skills such as Active Learning, Goal Setting and Action Planning, Decision Making, and Initiative, which they will require at Levels 5 and 6.

Assessment preparation and completion will allow students to fully prepare for their formative and summative coursework. They will have the opportunity to consolidate and build upon knowledge gained in the taught sessions

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The formatively assessed exercises coursework are designed to test the breadth of knowledge of important concepts related to the application of biological and environmental survey methods, and laboratory analyses. Feedback from formative coursework will prepare students for summative coursework assessments and the end of year practical exam.

The three 1000 word equivalent summative reports will assess the students’ ability to plan and carry out experimental work from field and laboratory settings, and accurately record, analyse and report scientific data. In producing the report, students will need to demonstrate their use of taught practical skills, appropriate reporting and interpretation of observations.

The 500 word equivalent problem solving exercise will examine the students’ ability to design an appropriate experiment suited to the application to unknown samples, and the ability to report outcomes in a concise laboratory report.