Student and tutor module reviews

I absolutely loved this module and got a lot from it.

There are weeks when it was harder going; either because some of the content was written in a dull way and trying to stay focused was a challenge, or because it was hard work with some of the concepts, but I kept working at it and I did get there with understanding. I didn't realise how much I struggled visualising until I had to see a 2D geological map in 3D form, it takes some work! This meant that I also found working out the timings of geological events on a 2D map tricky, but, there were lots of resources made available by tutors which was helpful.
There were 6 tutor-marked assignments (TMA's) and a final exam at the end. The TMA's were well laid out with questions which covered the learnt coursework.
The exam I was more disappointed with; There were a few questions which didn't feel like they explored my understanding of geology but were rather more of a learning exercise. I had also changed the way I revised because it was recommended to check against the learning outcomes, but I felt in the exam none of the learning outcomes were covered and if I had revised using my notes instead I would have fared better because my notes were more detailed.
Overall I found the module all very fascinating and it only reaffirmed in my mind that the Earth Sciences is the route I would like to focus on.

Now for the best part of the module - The optional residential school at Blencathra!
This was an amazing experience and really put everything learnt thus far from the module into reality. I suggest that you don't get distracted with the marvellous views and all the interesting rocks and draw and write everything down! Including photographs, note taking with drawings are essential so I would recommend that if you go, that you are prepared. I had to return after the week was over to one of the sites to gather more data as I had gaps in the information that I needed to complete for my TMA. The week I went, my group were blessed with amazing weather which is always a bonus when you are up the side of a mountain. I met some fantastic people on the trip and it was really interesting to hear our guides (Dave and Andrew) stories and pick at their knowledge. I also learnt a little about moss incidentally during the evenings nightcap!

I would highly recommend this course and my understanding of Earth Science was much improved afterwards. I only wish I could go back and do it all again. Therefore I give S209 the following scores;
The course material 8/10
Tutors 10/10
Tutorials 10/10
Residential trip 100/10 !

Anna West

Course starting: October 2018

Review posted: June 2020

Having only studied bits of Earth science the previous years in 'Questions in science' (S111) and 'Science: concepts and practice' (S112) I was worried about understanding the subject. My fears were unfounded though, the module was presented and laid out in a way that you are eased in to the subject. The first couple of topics give you the basic grounding and the rest follows on from there.

The tutors were very helpful and my group tutor was always on hand to help with anything I did not understand. We also had student buddies, students who completed the module the year before, answering questions and giving help on most things non academic. They were very useful.

There is a four day field trip, which you pay for, to Blencathra in the Lake District. I would definitely recommend going to this. Not only is it very interesting but you get to put into practice all that you have learned throughout the year and interact with your fellow students.

This is a very information heavy module so a well structured study calendar and time is needed. With the help of tutors, tutorials and a well taught module, I managed to pass the module quite comfortably. If you put in the work, you will enjoy this very interesting module.

John Robert Goodman

Course starting: October 2018

Review posted: August 2019