Exploration Geology (BSc) including Foundation Year

Credits: 10 ECTS

This module aims to develop students’ academic presentation skills and research methods (including use of library and database systems) with a focus on the importance of appropriate and accurate referencing.

Classes also aim to develop effective reading and listening techniques for comprehension and summary tasks, and critical evaluation skills. This module emphasises learner training, which includes self-reflection, goal-setting and evaluation, to better prepare students for their academic studies.

Learning outcomes

1. Identify key points in listening extracts to complete comprehension and summary tasks.
2. Identify key points in reading texts to complete comprehension and summary tasks.
3. Conduct research using library and online resources.
4. Apply the Cardiff University Harvard Referencing system.
5. Prepare and deliver effective academic presentations.

Credits: 10 ECTS

This module introduces you to how science works and how scientists investigate the world. You will become more comfortable asking questions and learn to design simple experiments, and carefully analyse results. You will also learn to think critically, work independently, and study effectively in a UK university setting.

You will practise how to read scientific information, spot mistakes or weak arguments, and share your ideas clearly through posters, videos, and presentations.

Learning outcomes

1. Apply the scientific method to create testable hypotheses and design simple experiments based on observation and logical reasoning.
2. Identify strengths and weaknesses in scientific information by evaluating evidence and recognising bias or limitations in research claims.
3. Analyse and interpret data using appropriate methods to find patterns and draw logical and valid conclusions.
4. Communicate scientific ideas clearly through a short video presentation and visual tools, using correct scientific terms and presentation techniques.
5. Demonstrate the ability to reflect on the scientific method and your own learning process using study skills relevant to higher education.

Credits: 10 ECTS

This module helps you build strong skills in key areas of mathematics such as algebra, trigonometry, and geometry. You will learn how to solve problems, think logically, and understand important mathematical ideas. These skills are essential to study a degree on Physical Sciences and Engineering.

You will explore how to work with different kinds of equations, graphs, and shapes. You will also begin learning basic calculus, including how to find slopes and areas using simple rules.

Learning outcomes

1. Accurately simplify and manipulate algebraic expressions and functions, including polynomials, rational expressions, exponents, to solve problems.
2. Solve and interpret linear, quadratic, simultaneous, and trigonometric equations and inequalities using appropriate algebraic and graphical methods.
3. Use coordinate geometry and vector operations to solve geometric problems involving lines, circles, and basic conic sections in two dimensions.
4. Apply trigonometric rules, graphs, identities, and inverse functions to solve problems involving angles, triangles, and periodic patterns in radians and degrees.

Credits: 10 ECTS

This module introduces you to the fundamental principles and techniques of data analysis, providing a foundation in data collection, cleaning, and manipulation, alongside essential descriptive statistics and data visualisation methods.

You will learn how to summarize and interpret data effectively, identify patterns and trends, and gain a basic understanding of inferential statistics, including hypothesis testing and confidence intervals. The module emphasises practical application, enabling students to analyse real-world data sets and draw meaningful conclusions.

Learning outcomes

1. Collect and organize data from various sources, and prepare it for analysis using appropriate techniques.
2. Calculate and interpret descriptive statistics, including measures of central tendency, dispersion, and correlation.
3. Visualise data effectively using a range of graphical methods, such as histograms, scatter plots, and box plots.
4. Perform basic inferential statistical tests, and interpret the results.
5. Communicate findings from data analyses clearly and concisely, using appropriate statistical terminology and visualisations.

This module introduces the whole Earth system, linking key processes within the solid Earth, the atmosphere and oceans and their role in the evolution of the habitable planet that we live on today. You will explore the Solid Earth cycle and will be given an introduction to rock types (igneous, metamorphic, sedimentary) and their context via the concept of the Rock Cycle.

You will investigate the atmosphere-ocean system looking at global processes occurring at the surface of the Earth. Phenomena such as temperature gradients, winds and currents will be introduced, and past extreme climate will be discussed in the form of icehouse and greenhouse conditions, snowball Earth and glacial-interglacial cycles. By investigating rising atmosphere and ocean temperatures and how future climate is modelled, you will learn about the hazards and risks faced by society.

Finally, you will explore the mineral, energy, and water resources that are produced by the Earth system.

Learning outcomes

1. Describe Earth’s internal and external structure using evidence from a range of geological sources.
2. Explain fundamental geological processes and their role in shaping Earth’s surface, including the formation of mountains, volcanoes, and earthquakes.
3. Describe the basic scientific principles behind the interactions and exchanges between the different parts of the Earth system
4. Discuss different past climate states and phenomena in the context of time and recognise climate and geological hazards related to the atmosphere-ocean/solid Earth system
5. Recognise the occurrence and distribution of mineral, energy, and water resources in the Earth system
6. Demonstrate basic techniques relevant to Earth sciences, including data analysis, and interpretation, and report findings effectively.

Additional course.