Undergraduate Course: Instrumentation for Ecological and Environmental Sciences (ECSC10028)
Course Outline
| School |
School of Geosciences |
College |
College of Science and Engineering |
| Course type |
Standard |
Availability |
Not available to visiting students |
| Credit level (Normal year taken) |
SCQF Level 10 (Year 4 Undergraduate) |
Credits |
10 |
| Home subject area |
Ecological Science |
Other subject area |
None |
| Course website |
None
|
Taught in Gaelic? |
No |
| Course description |
This course will allow students to build on and develop their skills in the operation and understanding of ecological and environmental science instrumentation. Scientific background and theory will be combined with practical $ùhands on&© experience to enhance the overall student learning experience. Through case studies and demonstrations from staff and instrument manufacturers, students will develop an understanding of different measurement techniques and their applications in ecological and environmental science research. Students will learn about measurement principles (e.g. calibration, standardisation and validation of instrumental methods), the advantages and limitations associated with different techniques, using computer software to control instruments and how environmental samples are prepared prior to instrumental analysis. The techniques covered will range from key environmental parameters (temperature, humidity, light), gas concentrations (pollutants, greenhouse gases, IRGA, CRS, GC), elemental analysis (ICPOES, ICPMS), bat detectors, bird radar, generic software for instrument control (digital and analogue measurement and feedback control). Overall, this course will provide students with training, knowledge and skills that will be useful during their dissertation projects and throughout their professional careers. |
Entry Requirements (not applicable to Visiting Students)
| Pre-requisites |
|
Co-requisites |
|
| Prohibited Combinations |
|
Other requirements |
None
|
| Additional Costs |
None |
Course Delivery Information
| Not being delivered |
Summary of Intended Learning Outcomes
- To provide an understanding of how important ecological and environmental science instruments are operated.
- To provide an overview of the scientific background and theory behind the workings of these instruments.
- To provide an understanding of different instrumental techniques and their applications in ecological and environmental science research.
- To provide an overview of measurement principles and the advantages and limitations associated with different instrumental techniques.
- To introduce the use of computer software to control instruments, data collection and processing techniques and preparation of environmental samples for instrumental analysis.
|
Assessment Information
| Written practical report assignment 100% |
Special Arrangements
| None |
Additional Information
| Academic description |
Not entered |
| Syllabus |
Not entered |
| Transferable skills |
Not entered |
| Reading list |
Not entered |
| Study Abroad |
Not entered |
| Study Pattern |
Not entered |
| Keywords |
Instrumental techniques environmental data collection |
Contacts
| Course organiser |
Dr Andrew Macleod
Tel:
Email: Andrew.Macleod@ed.ac.uk |
Course secretary |
Mrs Helen Mckeating
Tel: (0131 6)50 5430
Email: Helen.McKeating@ed.ac.uk |
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