Gwybodaeth Modiwlau

Module Identifier
GS20100
Module Title
Geoscience Laboratory Techniques
Academic Year
2025/2026
Co-ordinator
Semester
Semester 1 (Taught over 2 semesters)

Course Delivery

 

Assessment

Assessment Type Assessment length / details Proportion
Semester Assessment Sediment analysis report  Individually written report based on field and laboratory analysis of sediments. 2000 Words  50%
Semester Assessment Geochemical analysis report  Report of geochemical analytical laboratory work to include presentation, interpretation and evaluation of original data. This is an individual submission based on group work. 2000 Words  50%
Supplementary Assessment Geochemical analysis report  Report of geochemical analytical laboratory work to include presentation, interpretation and evaluation of original data. This is an individual submission based on group work. 2000 Words  50%
Supplementary Assessment Sediment analysis report  Individually written report based on field and laboratory analysis of sediments. 2000 Words  50%

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students should be able to:

Demonstrate proficiency in laboratory techniques.

Demonstrate an ability to analyse original data.

Present and communicate scientific findings.

Brief description

The analysis of Earth materials (e.g., soils, water and sediments) forms a core component of studies in physical geography, Earth science and environmental science. The characteristics of these materials often provides insights into past and present processes operating on Earth, whilst the quality of such materials determines the ability of societies to maintain sustainable food and water resources and can impact the viability of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. The module focuses on both the geochemical and physical analysis of natural materials through a series of laboratory classes, supported by lectures, workshops and surgery sessions, providing students with first-hand experience in chemical and sedimentary analysis, as well as enhancing data collection, processing, presentation and science communication skills.

Content

This module considers the physical and chemical analysis of natural materials, including naturally-deposited sediments, soil, and water. Students will be exposed to a range of scenario-based exercises and/or analytical techniques relevant to their chosen degree. They will participate in a range of laboratory based exercises throughout the year, providing excellent training for science-based dissertations/major projects, and enhancing skills to take forward into the workplace on completion of their degree.

Module Skills

Skills Type Skills details
Adaptability and resilience Students will need to be adaptable in the laboratory, responding to the environments in which they are working and/or needs of instruments and experiments. They will need to show resilience when handling unexpected results and in time-pressured situations.
Co-ordinating with others Students will be required to work in small teams in some lectures and practical sessions.
Creative Problem Solving Problem solving will be developed through the analysis and interpretation of environmental data. Students will enhance problem solving skills in group and lone-working situations.
Critical and analytical thinking Students will need to think critically and analytically throughout this module.
Digital capability Technological instruments and techniques will be used during practical classes. Standard software (e.g. Word, Excel) will be used to analyse data and prepare assessments.
Professional communication Developed through group work activities and through the written assessments where self-generated data will be presented in an appropriate way.
Real world sense A series of hypothetical situations will be used to frame experiments undertaken throughout the module.
Reflection Formative assignments allow students to act on feedback.
Subject Specific Skills The acquisition, analysis and presentation of environmental data. Safe laboratory working protocols. Laboratory data note taking.

Notes

This module is at CQFW Level 5