MTMCC-The Science of Climate Change (M-level)

Module Provider: Meteorology
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites: GCSE Science Grade C
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2020/1

Email: n.w.arnell@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module provides an introduction to the science of climate change, aimed at students who do not necessarily have a scientific background.

Aims:
This module provides an introduction to the science of climate change, aimed at students who do not necessarily have a scientific background. It provides the background for a deep and informed understanding of one of today􀀒s key global challenges. Why is climate changing, and how will it change in the future? How can we predict future climate? What is a 􀀓dangerous􀀔 climate change? And how can we construct and use knowledge of climate change to inform adaptation and mitigation?

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of the module, the student will be able to:

• Demonstrate an understanding of the mechanisms and processes behind climate change;

• Demonstrate an ability to interpret and critically evaluate projections of future climate and its impacts.

Additional outcomes:
The student will gain a sound scientific background for further study into other scientific, social, economic, legal and political dimensions of climate change and responses to it.

Outline content:

• Introduction;

• The climate system;

• Modelling past, present and future climate change;

• Projecting the future;

• The impacts of climate change: what is dangerous?;

• Adapting to climate change;

• Mitigating climate change;

• Overview.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

The module will be largely lecture based but with a practical session using a simple computer based climate model.

Summative assessment- Examinations:

1.5 hours.

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Formative assessment methods:
A Blackboard Quiz on lectures 1-4 in week 4 (unassessed).

Penalties for late submission:
Penalties for late submission on this module are in accordance with the University policy. Please refer to page 5 of the Postgraduate Guide to Assessment for further information: http://www.reading.ac.uk/internal/exams/student/exa-guidePG.aspx

Assessment requirements for a pass:

A mark of 50% overall.

Reassessment arrangements:

Re-sit examination in August / September.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

1) Required text books: 2) Specialist equipment or materials: 3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear: 4) Printing and binding: 5) Computers and devices with a particular specification: 6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence:

Last updated: 15 April 2020