Rapid expansion in urbanisation was one of the most important geographical phenomena of the twentieth century. This module focuses on both the impacts of urbanisation on the physical environment and the controls that the physical environment exerts on urban land use. It discusses the operation of physical processes within cities and how these can both shape and be shaped by the human environment. It explores the contribution that the physical geographer can make to urban planning and land management decisions. In order to do this a range of applied physical geography themes are explored, such as, humans as agents of geomorphological change, urban geomorphology (landslides, subsidence, geomorphologists as prospectors), environmental impacts of resource extraction, land contamination and reclamation, urban climates and the relationship between cities and climate change, urban air quality issues, the identification, monitoring and management of urban stone decay. Approaches to and techniques used in the collection of applied physical geography data and how an understanding of physical geography can contribute to urban planning, land management and hazard mitigation are also considered.

A two hour examination (100%) consisting of 2 essay answers. One answer will be on a question seen in advance and the other will be chosen from a list of titles [Learning outcomes 1 - 6 inclusive]

Additional Assessment Details:
The seen essay question will be based on the collection of information during field work. Students will use this information to produce a seen essay which presents a recommended research strategy for the investigation of a selected aspect of physical geography within the city.

Formative Assessment: Self/peer assessed quizzes and/or the use of formative questions on handouts will allow students to self evaluate their understanding of module materials. Structured class activities will allow students to discuss ideas introduced in the module and provide them with further opportunity to self-evaluate their understanding of module materials. Students will also be provided with the opportunity to receive feedback on their seen exam essay plans.

The module will be delivered through a combination of:

1. 10 weekly 2 hour sessions - these will introduce key concepts and approaches related to applied physical geography, urban land use and management and provide the opportunity to discuss approaches to and techniques used to collect and apply physical geography information. A variety of formats will be used in these sessions - e.g. traditional lectures, buzz groups, group discussions, completion of structured worksheets, student presentations.

2. 1 staff-led field session (4 hours) - to investigate selected module themes within the context of a specific urban environment

3. 1 student-led field session (4 hours) - to further investigate selected modules themes and collect information for the seen essay question.

4. Independent learning through the use of guided reading, internet sites, the completion of preparatory and follow-up activities, and preparation for the examination should account for 126 hours.

Benton-Short, L. & Short, J. (2008) Cities and Nature. Routledge

Forman, R. T. (2008) Urban Regions: Ecology and Planning Beyond the City. Cambridge

Hardoy, J., Mitlin, D. & Satterthwaite, D. (2001) Environmental Problems in and Urbanizing World. Earthscan

Hough, M. (2004) Cities and Natural Process: a basis for sustainability

University Library and journals such as Applied Geography, Quarterly Journal of Engineering Geology and Hydrogeology, Environment and Urbanization
Faculty of Sciences Learning Resource Centre
Email, internet, on-line journals, and Blackboard or equivalent VLE