Outdoor Education

Interpreting the Landscape

Rationale

Landscape is the medium, the subject and the backdrop for the outdoor teacher and an understanding of its origins, its fragility and its beauty would seem to need no justification. The formative influences, geological, geomorphological, biological, human (historical and contemporary), will be considered chronologically. In historical times the changes that have occurred in landscape character, in land ownership and in the growing demands for public use and environmental protection have been determined, shaped and constrained by local, national and international legislation. These issues will be given specific attention in relation to their influence on the landscape of the present day.

The structure of the landscape and its development and the way in which the relationship between the public and the countryside is affected by legislation will be considered as both technical issues and also for their educational potential. Whilst the landscape of the UK will necessarily offer the main teaching examples the landscapes of other countries will be included where appropriate. Throughout there will be focus on generic processes, both physical and educational.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of the course students will:

  1. show understanding of the processes by which the three main rock types (volcanic, metamorphic and sedimentary) have arisen, and understand the chronology of the stratigraphic record;
  2. demonstrate awareness of the formative events that have shaped the British landscape; the recent 'Ice age'; fluvioglacial forces;
  3. be aware if the late-glacial and post-glacial events which have given rise to the present flora and fauna of Britain;
  4. show understanding of how, from Neolithic times to present, man and his land-use activities have influenced the rural landscape;
  5. be aware of the losses of natural habitats and their conversion to semi-natural and man-made ones;
  6. be familiar with concepts of landscape quality and be able to make informed judgements on the efficacy of activities which will shape future landscapes;
  7. have experienced and be familiar with a wide range of approaches to the collection of information and teaching in this subject area.

Teaching, Learning & Assessment Strategies

A variety of teaching approaches are used. Lectures introduce the main topics which are expanded upon in structured discussions. Practical teaching sessions also involve demonstration educational approaches including model making, dramatic representation. Students are also expected to present certain materials and arguments to the class in teaching exercises. Other practical sessions include rock classification and aesthetic aspects of landscape. There will also be a one day field trip to the Berwickshire coast. These are followed by a number of demonstration practicals and student-led practical exercises. Students will be expected to complete background reading and independent study in order to meet the level required to complete the course successfully. Specialist speakers will provide additional input.

Indicative Content

Assessment

Assessment will be in the form of a written assignment of 4000-5000 words. This may form part of a combined assignment with other courses as validated.

Credit Rating

20 SM (Scottish Masters) Level Credits