Introduction to Science and Technology Studies (HPSC0073)

This module introduces students to key episodes and themes in Science and Technology Studies and the methodological and critical perspectives required for their full understanding. This module is open for registration only to students enrolled on the Master’s level programmes in “Science, Technology, and Society” or “History and Philosophy of Science,” for which it is compulsory.

While the term “Black aesthetics” can be traced back to transnational Black arts movements of the 1960s and 1970s, this module explores the...

Black Aesthetics: Theory and Artistic Practices (HART0171)

While the term “Black aesthetics” can be traced back to transnational Black arts movements of the 1960s and 1970s, this module explores the relationship between what is regarded as Black artistic practice and the utilisation of art as a function of Black liberation. The module expands the notion of “Blackness” by placing emphasis on the inter-relation between race, theory and art practices of the African Diaspora, as they relate to anti-colonial and anti-racist thought. From a close exploration of foundational texts and artistic practices in Black Aesthetics to a theoretical corpus spanning key insights in psychoanalyses, phenomenology, metaphysics, this module challenges notions of perception, subject-production, and the politics of representation and difference that have come to define our contemporary understandings of race and racialisation in the African Diaspora.

Aquatic systems|landscape-scale aquatic conservation|ecological status|monitoring|palaeoecology

This module will introduce the importance of linked geomorphological, hydrological, physico-chemical and ecological processes to a continuum of aquatic systems...

Aquatic Systems and Monitoring with Fieldclass (GEOG0173)

This module will introduce the importance of linked geomorphological, hydrological, physico-chemical and ecological processes to a continuum of aquatic systems from groundwater and mountain systems to the coastal shelf. The importance of considering both spatial and temporal dimensions will be emphasised, especially with regards to contemporary ideas on aquatic conservation and restoration. In recognition of the importance of time, the use of palaeolimnology, as a means to assess historical change over a range of time-scales and resolutions (from millennia to annual) will be introduced. To understand chemical and biological changes taking place in aquatic ecosystems, as well as to characterise the success of conservation and restoration interventions, it is recognised that scientifically robust, reliable and ideally long-term monitoring is essential. Therefore, the module will also introduce the philosophy and basic principles that underlie effective aquatic monitoring, including Before-After Control-Impact (BACI) approaches and essential aspects such as consistency and quality control. Case studies will be used throughout to illustrate different monitoring techniques and approaches as well as recent advances in technology and instrumentation. Overall, the module will be taught in two broad ways. A series of lectures on aquatic systems and aquatic monitoring concepts and principles will be combined with fieldwork and practicals, seminars and lectures on applications.

Primary careers skills that the module will develop: Critical thinking: academic writing; presentation skills (the formative assessment); general ICT competence (need to check with Richard and Jon); Field work; Team working: time management (organising and planning work); Interpersonal skills: verbal communication; problem solving

There are no formal prerequisites since this is an introductory core module for the MSc Aquatic Conservation and Restoration programme