You will be provided with a learning programme at the start of the module that details the content and related work attributable to this module. This programme will be supported within the Blackboard VLE. A series of papers, research papers and guided reading of core material organised into 9 distinct units will provide this basic framework of information. Each unit will be focussed around a particular ecotoxicological concept or problem.

The module will provide you with the knowledge needed to examine and assess the toxic effects of pollutants within the environment and their effects on organisms, populations and communities. Within this overall area we will cover such areas as the nature and fate of chemicals within the environment including topics such as bioavailability, pollutant interactions, bioconcentration and biomagnification. Techniques for assessing toxicity within the laboratory and field including in-vitro, single and multi-species testing, the role and use of biomonitoring including biomarkers and bioindicator species will be critically evaluated. In addition the module will include data-handling techniques used in the analysis and statistical treatment of ecotoxicological data.

Each activity poses a problem or sets a question, assessment will consist of a "portfolio" containing your results, reflections and appraisal of the tasks set. Normally it is expected that each entry will be no more than 300 words. The "portfolio" will thus consist of a number of session specific entries and an overview (<500 words) containing your thoughts on the information presented. This aspect of the portfolio will assess outcomes 1,2,4-8.

Within the "portfolio" assessment approximately 30% will be devoted to the analysis of a provided dataset, (It is envisaged that 3/9 of the activities will concentrate solely on data analysis and manipulation) the remainder will following the guidelines above. This aspect of the portfolio will assess outcomes 2-5,8.

Pass criteria
Coherence and soundness in response. Good understanding of the subject matter, evidence of reading beyond the VLE study guide together with good use of relevant examples. Tasks competently completed
See Criterion Referencing Guide in the Student Handbook:
Sect. 8.7

Merit criteria
A very good awareness and understanding of the subject matter. Assignments are expressed cogently and lucidly. Work is of good quality, evidencing well-focussed observations and the addressing of all of the obvious key questions. Evidence of sound reading and a thorough critical analysis of the available literature
See Criterion Referencing Guide in the Student Handbook:
Sect. 8.7

Distinction criteria
Originality and creativity in response. Accurate and thorough understanding of the subject matter, evidence of wide reading beyond the VLE study guide, excellent use of relevant examples. Tasks thoroughly and comprehensively completed
See Criterion Referencing Guide in the Student Handbook:
Sect. 8.7

Course textbooks and learning materials - as supplied
Suitable computer that is able to access the WWW, the University server and load/run Blackboard
Library facilities as necessary

An array of electronic media/links will be provided. The following texts are useful additions

Walker et al., 2000, Principles of Ecotoxicology. Taylor and Francis, 0-7484-0940-8
Sparks, 2000, Statistics in Ecotoxicology. John Wiley & Sons Ltd, 0-471-97299-1