Aims and Fit of Module

This module introduces students to the scientific method approach, specifically some of the principles that scientists follow to produce and debate scientific knowledge in different environmental research areas. Emphasis will be placed on how to structure scientific enquiry, hypothesis formulation and testing, and using argumentation based on empirical evidence. Research ethics will be introduced and various issues of scientific misconduct will be examined. Finally, the module also will focus on effective science communication by emphasizing how to structure visual representations such as diagrams, graphs and tables.

Learning outcomes

A. plan a focused scientific enquiry, including formulating clear research questions or hypotheses and selecting appropriate methods.

B. evaluate the validity of research outcomes by critically interpreting empirical evidence and identifying methodological limitations.

C. construct effective visualisations (figures, tables, posters) to communicate scientific data and concepts.

D. apply ethical research practice, including recognising common forms of scientific misconduct and the standards for working with human, vertebrate, and other research subjects.

E. produce a structured written scientific report that follows disciplinary conventions.

F. deliver scientific work to a peer audience through a poster and oral presentation.

Method of teaching and learning

This module integrates weekly Lectures, introducing core research principles and skills sequentially, with hands-on Labs focused on immediate practical application using relevant software. Learning is centred on a tutor-supervised Mini-Research Project that draws on secondary or instructor-supplied data, allowing contextual skill application without the independent novel-research demand of a Final Year Project.

Typically, the 2-hour lecture and 2-hour lab session for each week are scheduled as separate sessions within the same week. This structure allows focused engagement with theoretical concepts during lectures and dedicated time for practical application and skill development during labs. Lab sessions are designed to be interactive and benefit from spaces suitable for computer work and group discussion.

The three assessment components — Mini-Research Report, Poster & Oral Presentation, and Research Skills Portfolio — are individual, criterion-referenced tasks scaffolded across the semester. Scope, word counts, and total assessment volume are calibrated to the 5-credit workload and to the skills expected at Stage 2, Level 1.