A networked computer for accessing Blackboard, web sites and electronic journals
Course texts
Learning pack

one 3500 word report (1, 2, 3, 4)

Pass criteria
You will demonstrate a sound awareness and understanding of the subject matter. Assignments are expressed reasonably and coherently. Work is academically sound, evidencing focussed observations and acknowledging key questions. There is evidence of sound reading and thorough critical analysis of the available literature.

Distinction criteria
You will demonstrate an excellent awareness and understanding of the subject matter. Assignments are well argued and excellently organized. Work is academically excellent, evidencing perceptiveness, insight and demonstrating creativity and originality. There is evidence of excellent reading, systematic review and thorough critical meta-analysis of the available literature.

Workshop: 8 hours
Directed distance-based study: 142 hours

You will attend a workshop at which you will be introduced to the module content and learning resources. Particular emphasis is placed in this module on you applying the research, reading and analytical skills used in previous modules to develop a more independent role in the examination of the selected key issues. The module will provide two introductory sessions, one for each issue. Specific guidance will be given in terms of guided reading to providing a starting point for advanced investigation. These activities will be specified using the Blackboard learning environment, making particular use of web-based resources. Independent learning will involve the deployment of research skills to assemble a critical and annotated

In this module you will have the opportunity to select and study two key issues in the global and international sustainable development agenda. Each of the issues will be subjected to an analysis based on pressure-response models of sustainable development strategies and policies with particular reference to the post 1992 period. Particular attention will be paid to the analysis of international, regional and national policy agendas responding to the selected issues and the degree to which these seek to translate the principles of sustainability into practical strategies and policies. Indicative issues include the following: population and sustainability; climate change and stratospheric ozone depletion; biodiversity and deforestation; sustainable transport; the management of freshwater resources; technology and sustainability, waste management; sustainable tourism; food production and intensification of agricultural land use; biotechnological risks; environmental security; management of marine and oceanic resources; gender inequalities in relation to sustainable development.

Vogler, J. (2000) The Global Commons Wiley, Chichester
UNEP (1999) Global Environment Outlook. UNEP
WRI (2000) World Resources 2000-2001: Humans and Ecosystems: The Fraying Web of Life. WRI