PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION BA Single Honours Geography (Streatham Campus) 1 Awarding Institution: University of Exeter 2 School(s)/Teaching Institution: School of Geography 3 Programme accredited/validated by: University of Exeter 4 Final Award(s): BA (Hons.) 5 Programme Title: Geography 6 UCAS Code (if relevant): L705 7 FHEQ Level of Final Award(s): H 8 QAA Subject Benchmarking Group: Geography 9 Date of Revision: August 2009 10 Programme Structures and Requirements, Levels, Modules, Credits and Awards This 360-credit programme is normally studied over three years and, with the exception of the Residential Field Trip (GEO2308) which is normally held in one of the vacations in the second year, is University-based throughout. Study is undertaken at three levels, one for each stage of the programme. The programme is divided into selfcontained units of study called modules. Each module has a credit value, and all full time students are normally required to take modules totaling 120 credits in each year of study. Where compulsory modules make up less than 120 credits in any year, optional modules must be chosen to bring the total to 120 credits. Part-time students should negotiate with their Schools the pattern of modules over the agreed timescale of their programme of study. Stage 1: One module 30 credit module is compulsory and non-condonable: GEO1307 - Foundations in Human Geography. In addition all of the three 15-credit modules in Human Geography must be taken: GEO1105 GEO1106 GEO1107 Geographies of Place, Identity and Culture Geographies of Global Change Nature, Environment and Development And at least one of the three 15-credit modules in Physical Geography: GEO1205 GEO1207 GEO1206 An Introduction to the Physical Geography of South West England Earth Systems Global Climate Systems The remaining 30 credits may be taken in whole or in part as approved modules from other schools (timetable permitting), but will usually comprise the other two 15-credit modules in Physical Geography. A student must normally have passed 30 credits of Human Geography at Level 1 in order to do Level 2/3 Human Geography modules. Stage 2: Three modules are compulsory: GEO2310 GEO2312 GEO2308 Human Geography Practice 30 credits Theory, Space and Society 15 credits Human Geography Fieldtrip 15 credits The remaining 60 credits taken either as a) four from Human Geography optional modules GEO2117- GEO2123 (15-credit modules), or b) three from GEO2117-GEO2123 and one Physical Geography modules GEO2217-2219 (15-credit modules) or c) two from GEO2117-GEO2123 and two Physical Geography modules GEO2217- GEO2219 (15-credit modules) Students may elect to take up to 30 credits as approved modules from other schools (timetable permitting), replacing either one or two of the 15-credit modules above. The 15-credit module GEO2315 Learning from Experience may be taken in place of any of the optional 15 credit modules listed above. Stage 3: One module is compulsory: GEO3301 Dissertation (40 credits). 80 credits taken as either a) four 20-credit modules selected from GEO3101 GEO3221 or b) four 1
15-credit modules and one 20-credit module selected from GEO3101 GEO3221. Students may elect to take up to 30 credits as approved modules from other schools (timetable permitting), replacing either one or two of the 15-credit modules of option b). Exams and assessment in level one do not count towards degree classification. at level 2 and in the final year contribute 1:2 respectively of the marks of the final award. Full details of the University of Exeter Procedures can be found at: http://admin.exeter.ac.uk/academic/tls/tqa/part%208/8eugexams2.pdf *All modules are presently condonable with the exception of GEO1307 University conventions apply the following principles for enhanced student choice within their programmes of study: Students taking a 360-credit degree programme must take no more than 180 credits of level 1 modules and not less than 90 credits of level 2/3 modules. Students may select options, timetable permitting, in other Schools, to a maximum of 90 credits over the three years of study. If a student elects to take less than 120 credits of either level 2 or level 3 modules, such choice may result in a revision of their degree title. Students wishing to exercise enhanced choice will be advised whether this would result in a revision of their degree title. A module may be taken only if the necessary prerequisites have been satisfied, if the timetable allows, and if the module or an equivalent module has not been taken previously. Modules are not all available every year and options are offered each year at the discretion of the School. Geography modules currently being offered may be viewed on the website at: 11 Educational Aims of the Programme http://geography.exeter.ac.uk/geography/students/module_list.shtml The programme is intended to show Geography as a dynamic discipline concerned with processes and patterns in human and natural environments. It aims to provide students with a broad understanding of geographical aspects of human society and the physical environment and their complex interrelationships before offering them an opportunity to develop their own interests in the discipline and gain a more detailed and nuanced appreciation of a variety of specific aspects of human geography in which the School has specialised. Through fieldwork in human geography and other forms of experiential learning, this programme particularly aims to promote curiosity about social and cultural environments and, through a variety of pedagogies, to enable students to develop a range of skills specific to the human geographer as well as a series of cognitive, generic and transferable skills. 12 & 13 Programme Outcomes and Teaching, Learning & Methods On successfully completing the programme, a graduate will be able to demonstrate: A Comprehension of a) the nature of change within human and physical environments, b) the reciprocal relationships between physical and human environments, c) the significance of spatial relationships as influences upon human and physical environments, and d) the diversity and interdependence of places at various spatial scales. 2 and 3, through GEO1307 and fieldwork at level 2 (GEO2308). Implicitly through lectures, seminars and directed study in the context of a variety specific topic-based option modules at levels 1,2, and 3. Explicitly through coursework (GEO1307/GEO2310) and implicitly through coursework and written examinations associated with topic-based modules. 2
B An ability to evaluate the diversity of approaches to the generation of knowledge and understanding deriving from experience of the epistemologies of the humanities and social sciences. C An ability to understand geographical concepts in different situations. Students should also be able to demonstrate that they are able to apply ideas to new situations and that they have a systematic approach to accuracy, precision and uncertainty. D An ability to evaluate a) the issues involved in applying research design and execution skills within the specific context of primary research, and b) the diversity of specialised approaches to, and techniques of, collecting, analysing and presenting information on the human environment. An ability to describe and apply appropriate approaches to, and techniques of, collecting, analysing and presenting information on the human environment. exercises in Level One The Nature of Geographical Knowledge (GEO1307), Level 2 Human Geography Practice (GEO2310) and Theory Space and Society (GEO2312). Implicitly through lectures, seminars and directed study in specific topic-based option modules at levels 1,2,and 3. Applied in self-directed Level 3 dissertation (GEO3301). Explicitly through coursework (GEO2310 and GEO2312) and dissertation (GEO3301) and implicitly through coursework and written examinations associated with topic-based modules. exercises in Level 2 Human Geography Practice GEO2310). Implicitly through lectures, seminars and directed study in the context of a number of specific topic-based modules at levels 2 and 3 modules. Practical application in self-directed Level 3 dissertation (GEO3301). Explicitly through coursework (GEO2310) and dissertation (GEO3301) and implicitly through coursework and written examinations associated with topic-based modules. exercises in Level 2 Human Geography Practice (GEO2310) and through level 2 fieldwork (GEO2308). Practical application in self-directed Level 3 dissertation (GEO3301). Explicitly through coursework (GEO2310), field work presentations (GEO2308) and dissertation (GEO3301). E An ability to a) synthesise information and recognise relevance, develop a sustained and reasoned argument, and b) evaluate and articulate weaknesses in the arguments of others. An ability then to communicate ideas, principles and theories effectively and fluently by written, oral and visual means in a manner appropriate to the intended audience. 2 and 3, through GEO1307 and lectures and directed practical exercises in Level 2 Human Geography Practice (GEO2310), and self-directed level 3 dissertation (GEO3301). Implicitly through lectures, seminars and directed study in the context of specific topic-based modules at levels 1,2, and 3 modules. Explicitly through coursework (GEO1307/2310) and dissertation (GEO3301) and implicitly through coursework and written examinations associated with topic-based modules. 3
F An ability to illustrate and discuss the contested and provisional nature of knowledge and understanding and to articulate and communicate personal views about geographical issues. 2 and 3, through GEO1307 and lectures and directed practical exercises in Level 2 Human Geography Practice (GEO2310) and Theory Space and Society (GEO2312), and self-directed level 3 dissertation (GEO3301). Implicitly through lectures, seminars and directed study in the context of specific topic-based modules at levels 1,2, and 3 modules. Explicitly through coursework (GEO1307/2310/2312) and dissertation (GEO3301) and implicitly through coursework and written examinations associated with topic-based modules. G An ability to a) identify/formulate and evaluate questions or problems, and b) identify and evaluate approaches to problem-solving. exercises in Level 2 Human Geography Practice GEO2310), and the self-directed level 3 dissertation (GEO3301). Explicitly through coursework (GEO2310) and dissertation (GEO3301). H An ability to a) use C&IT effectively and appropriately to select, analyse, present and communicate geographical information, b) effectively and appropriately interpret and use numerical statistical information, and c) apply basic and more advanced numerical skills effectively and appropriately to geographical information. Primarily in Level 1 practicals (GEO1307/) and level 2 Human Geography Practice GEO2310). Often with practical application as part of selfdirected level 3 dissertation (GEO3301). Explicitly through coursework (GEO1307 and GEO2310) and, in many cases, the dissertation (GEO3301). I An ability to undertake independent/selfdirected study/learning (including time management) to achieve consistent, proficient and sustained attainment 2 and 3 and field work at level 2 (GEO2308). Explicitly through coursework at levels 1 (GEO1307) and 2 (GEO2308). Implicitly through the entire degree programme. J An ability to work as a participant or leader of a group and contribute effectively to the achievement of objectives Primarily through tutorials at levels 1 (GEO1307) and field work at level 2 (GEO2308). Explicitly through coursework at levels 1 (GEO1307) and 2 (GEO2308). K An ability to reflect on the process of learning and evaluate personal strengths and weaknesses Primarily through tutorials at levels 1 (GEO1307). Explicitly through coursework at level 1 (GEO1307). The above programme outcomes conform in full with the QAA Geography Benchmark Statement. 4
14 Support for Students and Students Learning All students in the School of Geography are allocated Personal Tutors who monitor and advise students on their academic progress and performance throughout their degree programme. Each Personal Tutor keeps a record of their tutee s performance which culminates in a detailed record of achievement which is used, in addition to formal assessments, to help inform personal references requested by prospective employers. Personal Tutors provide pastoral oversight for non-academic problems (advising students as necessary on the availability of appropriate specialist and professional assistance), and encourage and facilitate Personal Development Planning through use of PESCA and Self Appraisal Forms. A University-wide statement on such provision and role of Personal Tutors is included in the University s TQA Manual - http://admin.exeter.ac.uk/academic/tls/tqa/part%206/6bpts03.pdf In addition, students studying BA Geography take a compulsory, tutorial-based, 15-credit level 1 module on Study Skills for Geographers (GEO1307). This module aims to a) raise student awareness of the role they must themselves play in the learning process, b) facilitate the development of students as independent learners, and c) direct student acquisition of a range of specialist and generic skills. The module is assessed by means of a self-reflective portfolio of the work undertaken during the course of the year. All students attend University and School induction courses on arrival, and all are given University and School Handbooks the latter providing information on programmes, the structure of the School, general information, contact numbers, etc. This information is kept up-to-date through the School website and also via WebCT, which also provides a point of access to all learning and teaching materials. Student learning is supported by the School s Advanced Computing Laboratory which provides dedicated support for GIS and other School computing needs. This resource is in addition to a variety of university-level facilities, including the University Library and IT Services. Students can apply to the Myrtle Murray Travel Award for financial support of field work. All teaching staff maintain an open door policy to facilitate student access. There is also student representation at all levels in the School, and programme development takes place with explicit consultation, notably through the Student- Staff Liaison Committee and the formal representation of students on the School Education Committee and at the termly School meeting. All Schools are required to possess Student/Staff Liaison Committees, which allow students to contribute directly to the enhancement of educational and other provision at discipline level. At Exeter, the University Library maintains its principal collections in the main library buildings on the Streatham and St Luke s campuses, together with a number of specialist collections in certain Schools. The total Library collection comprises over a million volumes and 3000 current periodical subscriptions. Information Technology (IT) Services provide a wide range of services throughout the Exeter campuses including open access computer rooms, some of which are available 24 hours, 7 days a week. Helpdesks are maintained on the Streatham and St Luke s campuses, while most study bedrooms in halls and flats are linked to the University s campus network. The following units at Exeter between them provide a wide range of student support services: - Student Counselling Service - Student Health Centre - Study Skills Service - Family Centre (Streatham campus) - Student Advice Centre (Guild of Students) - Chaplaincy - International Office - English and Foreign Language Centres - Study Abroad Office - Disability Resource Centre The University Careers and Employment service provides expert advice to all students to enable them to plan their futures, through guidance interviews, psychometric testing, employer presentations, skills events, practice job interviews and CV preparation. 15 Admission Criteria Please refer to the latest Entry Data tables at www.exeter.ac.uk/undergraduate These can be found under Entry Requirements within the relevant subject entries at: http://www.exeter.ac.uk/undergraduate/degrees/index.php 16 Regulation of and Academic Standards Each academic programme in the University is subject to an agreed School assessment marking strategy, underpinned by institution-wide assessment procedures. The security of assessment and academic standards is 5
further supported through the external examiners appointed for each programme. Their responsibilities are described in the University's code for external examiners and include access to draft papers, course work and examination scripts. Attendance at the Board of Examiners and the provision of an annual report are both required. Clear procedures are also in place for the monitoring of these annual reports at both School and University level. See the University's TQA Manual for details of these processes (http://www.ex.ac.uk/admin/academic/tls/tqa/). 17 Indicators of Quality and Standards The University and its constituent Schools drawn on a range of data in their regular review of the quality of provision. The annual produced Performance Indicator Dataset details admission, progression, completion and first career destination data, including comparisons over a five-year timespan. 18 Methods for Evaluating and Improving Quality and Standards The University has procedures in place for the regular review of its educational provision, including the annual review of both modules and programmes which draw on feedback from such sources as external examiners' reports, student evaluation, student achievement and progression data. In addition, subject areas are reviewed every three years through a subject and programme quality review scheme that includes external input. These procedures are recorded in codes of practice contained in the TQA Manual. 6