University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 20

ECTS credits : 10

Level : SCQF level 9

Semester: 1

Availability restrictions: Offered on a two-year cycle.

Planned timetable: 9.00 am - 11.00 am Tue

This module examines how we can use records of the past to understand human-environment interactions over the timescales on which climate change plays out. It will present key concepts and theories for understanding the complex dynamics of socio-ecological systems, and illustrate how careful consideration of palaeoenvironmental, archaeological and historical data can be used to understand how past societies coped with climatic stresses and managed finite resources. We also consider how knowledge of the past can inform current and future thinking about social resilience and conservation management. The module uses case studies from the Old and New Worlds, including North Atlantic, Pacific Islands, and the African savanna.

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 1-hour lecture (x 10 weeks), 1-hour seminar (x 10 weeks).

Scheduled learning hours: 20

Guided independent study hours: 176

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 2-hour Written Examination = 60%, Coursework = 40%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 0%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 100%

Re-assessment: 2-hour Written Examination = 100%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr A L Davies
Module teaching staff: Dr A Davies and Dr R Streeter