Undergraduate Module Descriptor

POC3095: Environmental Knowledge Controversies

This module descriptor refers to the 2024/5 academic year.

Please note that this module is only delivered on the Penryn Campus.

Module Aims

This module provides an applied introduction to environmental policy conflicts and state-of-the-art ideas for their resolution. In taking a close look at the scientific evidence base on conflictual environmental policy issues, you will come to understand how science is a socially constructed endeavour. You will be able to understand the challenges of producing consensual policy on issues that have a disputed evidence base, and which consequently polarise society.

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)

This module's assessment will evaluate your achievement of the ILOs listed here – you will see reference to these ILO numbers in the details of the assessment for this module.

On successfully completing the programme you will be able to:
Module-Specific Skills1. demonstrate in-depth knowledge of the role of science in the governance of environmental issues;
2. understand, evaluate and critically apply a range of concepts and theories on the science-policy nexus to the governance of environmental issues;
3. identify and evaluate different methods for reconciling democracy with expertise, and critically assess their contribution.
Discipline-Specific Skills4. find, read, use and critically analyse secondary data relevant to specific issue areas;
5. construct rigorous political arguments.
Personal and Key Skills6. demonstrate in-depth understanding of the processes through which knowledge is socially constructed;
7. work independently to produce coursework to deadlines;
8. respond to a range of views and devise a deliberative strategy to achieve consensus;
9. ability to critically assess and synthesize the diversity of knowledge produced around an environmental controversy.