SD5004 Introduction to Global Climate Change

Academic year

2024 to 2025 Semester 1

Further information on which modules are specific to your programme.

Key module information

SCOTCAT credits

15

The Scottish Credit Accumulation and Transfer (SCOTCAT) system allows credits gained in Scotland to be transferred between institutions. The number of credits associated with a module gives an indication of the amount of learning effort required by the learner. European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) credits are half the value of SCOTCAT credits.

SCQF level

SCQF level 11

The Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) provides an indication of the complexity of award qualifications and associated learning and operates on an ascending numeric scale from Levels 1-12 with SCQF Level 10 equating to a Scottish undergraduate Honours degree.

Availability restrictions

Only available to MSc Sustainable Development students.

Planned timetable

9.00am - 11.00am Wed

This information is given as indicative. Timetable may change at short notice depending on room availability.

Module coordinator

Prof D I Benn

This information is given as indicative. Staff involved in a module may change at short notice depending on availability and circumstances.

Module Staff

Team taught

This information is given as indicative. Staff involved in a module may change at short notice depending on availability and circumstances.

Module description

This module provides students of sustainable development with the scientific background to understand past, present and future climate change and its consequences globally. Topics will include: air pollution, the functioning of the global climate system; the causes of climate change (especially the anthropogenic greenhouse effect); weather and climate forecasting; addressing climate denial, the ozone hole, and the global impact of climate change.

Assessment pattern

Coursework (including presentation =20%)= 100%

Re-assessment

Coursework = 100%

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact

1 lecture (x 10 weeks), 1 seminar (x 10 weeks)

Intended learning outcomes

  • Mastery of the core scientific principles behind climate change and its consequences
  • Understanding "climate skeptic" arguments, and developing suitable counter-arguments
  • Ability to critically engage with and debate current issues concerning climate change and sustainable development
  • Ability to report these climate change issues for both a science and non-science focused audience