BA GEOGRAPHY AND INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT WITH A FOUNDATION YEAR

DEV-3001A  (20 Credits)

The Academic Skills and Literacy module (Autumn semester) will help develop Foundation Year students’ study skills, assisting them with both their assignments for the Foundation Year but also preparing them for study from Year 1 onwards, ensuring they become competent independent learners. This module will complement the other core module in the Autumn semester, Global Challenges 1, guiding students through key issues such as academic reading, note-taking and comprehension, and how to use the library (in person and online). Students will acquire key concepts and skills such as, what we mean by academic literature and how to assess the validity of a source, undertaking literature searches, plagiarism and referencing. Their writing will be strengthened through additional work on constructing an argument, critical analysis and critical reading, IT skills (including Excel), digital literacy, written assignment structure, and presentation and debating skills. Students will also learn how to understand and present data. Furthermore, students will be encouraged to be reflexive about their learning styles and to think about how they learn and how they can improve. A second key element of the Academic Skills and Literacy module will be to ensure that students know where to go for support.

DEV-3002B  (20 Credits)

The Foundation Paper in Development Studies module is a project-based module in which students focus on a particular global challenge, developing an extended paper. The module complements the two core International Development Foundation Year modules, Global Challenges: Issues and Concepts in Development Studies 1 and 2 in terms of the subject-based content. It also complements the Autumn Semester module Academic Literacy and Skills in further developing study skills (with a focus on desk-based research and writing skills). Students will work on exploring in more depth one particular global challenge, choosing a theme from Global Challenges 2. There will be a number of assignments (both formative and summative), that will culminate in a longer summative essay (the 'foundation paper') and an accompanying individual presentation. The Foundation Paper in Development Studies module will include a writing workshop in which students will have support in planning, thinking and writing. Each week will guide the students with skills development as well as helping students to develop their research project (and assessments) through a step-by-step process. It will not be possible to produce a high standard of work without attending class and completing the formative assignments.

DEV-3012B  (20 Credits)

Global Challenges: Issues and Concepts in Development Studies 2 is a progression from Global Challenges: Issues and Concepts in Development Studies 1 and Foundation Year students in the School of International Development will take both modules. Global Challenges 2 continues with a thematic approach to an introduction to the interdisciplinary subject of development studies. Key pressing global challenges will be addressed, with case studies from specific countries used to explore issues in more contextual detail. Key issues studied across the two modules could include such issues as inequality and poverty, population growth, climate change, democracy, HIV/AIDS, indigenous peoples, and migration and refugees.

DEV-3011A  (20 Credits)

Global Challenges: Issues and Concepts in Development Studies 1 (GC1) takes a thematic approach to an introduction to the interdisciplinary subject of development studies. Key pressing global challenges will be explored, with case studies from specific contexts used to look at issues in more contextual detail. Key issues studied in GC1 include population change, inequality, HIV/AIDS, gender, migration, climate change, food security, governance and humanitarian communication. Global Challenges: Issues and Concepts in Developments Studies 2 is a related module in the Spring semester and Foundation Year students in the School of International Development will take both modules.

ENV-3001Y  (20 Credits)

In this module you will learn about the interdisciplinary nature of environmental sciences through discussion of current hot topics, and carrying out projects on environmental topics that are challenging us today ; you will acquire skills in field work, data analysis, and writing scientific reports. Through the year-long module you will gain an understanding of the breadth of environmental science topics, the multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary nature of environmental systems. You will develop skills in verbal and written scientific communication skills, critically analyse environmental problems and discuss solutions to the challenges of sustainable management of our environment. These skills will be of benefit to you through the rest of your degree. This module is optional for DEV foundation year students, and may be taken by BIO foundation year students as a concession (agreed with the module organiser and BIO course director).

HUM-3001B (20 Credits)

How is history used to inform the society in which we live? What is the relationship between the history we study academically at university and how history is used and consumed in contemporary society? These are some of the questions you will explore in this module. Using examples from modern history and other time periods that inform our understanding of this history as our case study, you will develop the key skills you need to critically analyse the past and the different representations we make about the past. You will develop key skills needed by the historian to analyse different primary and secondary sources, understand the importance of contextualisation and the role of the historian in shaping narratives about the past.

HUM-3002B  (20 Credits)

This module introduces you to some of the key ideologies and 'isms' within contemporary political theory which form the focus of contemporary debates. It will encourage you to consider the role that politics plays in your life through the examination of political theory. Radical doctrines such as anarchism and fundamentalism will be discussed and evaluated alongside more traditional ideologies such as socialism, liberalism and conservatism. If you are a Foundation Year student it will have relevance to you in its critical approach to ideology.

PPLB4015B  (20 Credits)

Bonjour, comment ça va? Do you want to understand what this means and how to say it? This module will help you to master basics of French language and communication. This module is perfect for you if you have never studied French before (or have very little experience of it). Throughout the semester, you’ll develop reading, listening, speaking and writing skills at the A1 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This means that you will learn to communicate about yourself and your immediate environment in a set of concrete, everyday situations. You’ll be taught in a very interactive and friendly environment, and will often work in pairs or small groups. Your two-hour seminar will focus on listening, reading and writing skills, while the oral hour will help you to develop your confidence in speaking. We’ll tackle some grammatical notions in class, but always as a means for you to improve your communication skills. You’ll also have opportunities to explore aspects of the cultures where French is spoken, thanks to the various documents we will use to develop your linguistic skills (songs, podcasts, leaflets…). You’ll be assessed by two course tests: the first will cover listening, reading, and writing skills and the second will cover your speaking skills. On successful completion of this module, you’ll be able to understand and use familiar everyday expressions aimed at both the satisfaction of concrete needs, or those used to describe areas of most immediate relevance. You’ll be able to introduce yourself and others, ask and answer questions about personal details, and interact in a simple way provided the other person talks slowly and clearly. Please note that students should not have a level of French that exceeds the level of this course. This module is probably not appropriate for you if you have a recent French GCSE at grade C or above, if you have studied French abroad, or if you have learnt French in an informal setting (such as in your family). If you have such experience, please contact the Module Organiser as soon as possible to complete a level test.

PPLB4024B  (20 Credits)

Do you want to learn a new language? Do you want to access the Spanish-speaking world? Are you about to travel through Spain or any Spanish-speaking country in Latin America? Then, it´s the right time to enrol to Beginners´ Spanish I. This module will improve your academic education and will provide you with the confidence to advance towards intermediate and advanced levels. It sounds good, doesn't it? You will develop your reading, writing, listening and speaking skills and you will have the opportunity to receive personal feedback on all your efforts. You will take part in classroom-based activities, working in pairs and small groups exchanging ideas and supporting each other in the process of learning the language. You will also be able to focus on real life situations as well as the ability to communicate effectively in those situations. There will also be opportunities to explore aspects of the cultures where Spanish is currently the main language. By the end of this module, you will have the linguistic competence necessary to understand and use common, everyday expressions and simple sentences, to address immediate needs. If you have a recent Spanish GCSE grade C or below, or an international equivalent, then this module is appropriate for you.

PPLB4033B  (20 Credits)

How would you converse with someone who is deaf? At work? In school? In an emergency? How can you avoid typical faux pas due to ignorance of a different culture? Can a 'signed'/'visual' language 'convey as adequately' as a 'spoken' language? These questions highlight the central learning achieved in this module. This is a course in British Sign Language assuming no prior, or minimal knowledge of the language. Throughout the course you will discover aspects central to the Deaf World and its Culture, and how to communicate through a unique 'visual' language, a language that uses your hands and body to communicate! Teaching and learning strategies involve signed conversation (from early on), role-play, and lots of games and exercises that make a truly 'fun and enjoyable' module to take. You will learn a little about the history of the Deaf and Sign Language itself, and its long battle to be recognised. You will discover how using your body and hands can be an exciting and meaningful way of communicating. You will acquire q wide range of easily usable vocabulary, a deeper look into various features that make the language unique, and very different to spoken languages. On successful completion of this module you will have developed knowledge and skills that will enable you to communicate with a Deaf person. You will be able to take your British Sign Language studies onto the next level, broadening your knowledge and developing further, the skill within this amazing 'Visual' language. Please note, students who are found to have a level of knowledge that exceeds the level for which they have enrolled may be asked to withdraw from the module.

PPLB4042B  (20 Credits)

Do you want to explore Japanese culture or travel to Japan? Would you like to enhance your career opportunities? This is a beginners’ course in Japanese assuming little or no prior experience or knowledge of the language. In this module, you’ll learn reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. You’ll gain the linguistic understanding of a number of real life situations, as well as the ability to communicate effectively in those situations. There will also be opportunities to explore aspects of the cultures where Japanese is spoken. Particular emphasis will be placed on your acquisition of a sound knowledge of grammar. Please note that this is a subsidiary language module. Very occasionally, subsidiary language modules may need to be cancelled if there are low levels of enrolment. Please note that if you are found to have a level of knowledge in a language that exceeds the level for which you have enrolled, you may be asked to withdraw from the module at the Teacher’s discretion.

PPLB4045B  (20 Credits)

Its aim is the mastery of the alphabet: the script, the sounds of the letters, and their combination into words. Also, it introduces basic Arabic phrases and vocabulary to help you have introductory conversations. You will develop essential speaking, listening, reading and writing skills as well as a solid understanding of the structure of the language in Modern Standard Arabic (MSA). Some aspects of the Arab world and culture(s) are covered.

PPLB4047B  (20 Credits)

Have you ever wished you could order your mulled wine at the Christmas market in German? How would it feel be to be able to introduce yourself in German or survive a basic conversation in the language? Or do you simply want to understand what makes the Germans, the Austrians, or the Swiss tick? These questions highlight the central learning you will achieve within this module. Our beginners’ course in German is perfect if you have very little or no prior knowledge of the language. You will gain the confidence to use German in basic conversations as you develop a first understanding of German sounds and essential grammar. You will build up a bank of key vocabulary to survive in real-life situations. You will also gain a greater awareness of German traditions and ways of thinking to help you make sense of a country that is deeply rooted in the heart of Europe. In a relaxed environment you will participate in classroom-based activities, working in pairs and groups to try out and be creative with new sounds, words and phrases. The fun of language learning will never be far away and promises to give you the confidence to make the first steps in German. As well as speaking and listening to each other you will discover the joy of understanding an authentic German text and to write an amazing first paragraph in German. A first course in German will enable you to add a vital skill to your CV. At this crucial political and cultural moment in time the study of the German language and culture will without doubt make you a more attractive graduate and informed global citizen, whatever your specialism or area of interest. Please note that you should not have a level of German that exceeds the level of this course.

You’ll explore contemporary global challenges facing the developing world (such as migration, water security, gender equality and population growth), and be introduced to the interdisciplinary subject of development studies. You will also develop the study skills you need for success at university, developing as an independent learner, through dedicated modules. Optional modules can be taken from the Schools of Politics, History and Environmental Sciences, as well as Languages. 

For information on subsequent years of this course, please see the full BA Geography and International Development course profile. 

On your Foundation Year, your learning will predominantly take place through interactive seminars and workshops. You’ll work closely with your Foundation Year lecturers and fellow students as you build your academic skills. You’ll have the opportunity to receive regular verbal and written feedback on your work over the course of the Year, which you can feed into subsequent assignments and projects.  

You’ll be assessed through essays, course tests or exams, field project reports and presentations, as well as quantitative-analytical reports and policy briefs. 

In the foundation year, you will be assessed through varied forms of coursework. Key to assessment in the foundation year is ensuring you are well supported in developing the skills needed for you to successfully complete your assignments. 

Throughout your degree, you’ll have the chance to get valuable feedback on your work from staff and fellow students. This helps you identify areas for improvement, ensuring you get the most from your work.