Student and tutor module reviews
Environmental science
- Points: 60
- Code: S206
- Level: 2
- On this page
Student reviews
This is a very complex, heavy course. Extremely fast-paced and very detailed. If you're thinking as you're first level 2 course I'd really reconsider the step up from level 1 to this was hell. My other level 2 is far easier and has been like a step down. I strongly recommend studying s112 before this as you'll be lacking a lot of essential background knowledge if you don't.
Course starting: October 2018
Review posted: March 2020
Faculty response
Thank you so much for taking the time to study and review S206. Being a 60-credit OU level 2 module that is fundamental to those wanting to pursue a degree in Environmental Science as well as many other degrees in this field, it is designed to build on the foundations laid down in 'Science: concepts and practice' (S112) and 'Environment: journeys through a changing world' (U116), whilst being specific to the science of different environments, and in doing so, its intensity and complexity are slightly higher than studying an OU level 1 module. This module has many knowledgeable and helpful tutors to deliver support and advice, and a wide-range of different tuition strategies, from tutor group-sized tutorials to nationwide tutorials, virtual field trips, interactive field casts and field schools to aid individuals’ learning. The assessment strategy has recently been amended to remove the end of module exam, and is now based on six tutor-marked assignments only, making it less intensive at the conclusion of the module.
This was an online module. I find this difficult, since annotating, underlining, etc. are impossible. Finding past material is also difficult.
Having said that, the module brought the environment alive for me. Almost everything I see outside of the house is now of more interest than it was before.
I chose to attend the field course, in my case on Exmoor. The weather was awful, but the projects we were asked to complete were interesting.
Beth Rudkin
Course starting: October 2018
Review posted: August 2019
Please note
Each of the views expressed above is an individual's very particular response, largely unedited, and should be viewed with that in mind. Since modules are subject to regular updating, some of the issues identified may have already been addressed. In some instances the faculty may have provided a response to a comment. If you have a query about a particular module, please contact your Regional Centre.
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