Handbook

The course will introduce students to the scientific method within the life, environmental and Earth sciences. Major topics covered include 1) why environmental scientists need quantitative skills to seeking patterns in the natural world detecting change, 2) methods for collecting environmental data including new technologies, sampling and experimental design, 3) managing data (data entry, manipulation and introduction to coding languages for reproducible research), 4). visualising environmental information (graphics, mapping), 5) analysing environmental data and 6) communicating results. The focus will be on skills that are commonly needed in undergraduate subjects offered by the School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, and expected of graduates in our discipline. We will use a hands-on, problem-based approach with examples relevant to the discipline and strongly linked to current research in the school.