A COURSEWORK -ESSAY length 1000 WORDS weighted at 40%.
A COURSEWORK - SECOND ESSAY length 2500 WORDS weighted at 60%.
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This module provides an introduction to the sustainable development debate as it has developed over the past two decades. It examines the global crises which provided the impetus for a series of global-level conferences and reports leading up to the Brundtland Commission. The approach, themes and impact of the Brundtland report are evaluated alongside an evaluation of the range of different definitions of sustainable development that have since emerged. The basis for and implications of divergent definitions are carefully assessed. The key outcomes of the 1992 Rio conference are critically examined and progress through to Rio+5 and beyond evaluated. The module also develops key learning skills such as accessing and utilising web-based learning resources and methods of electronic interaction.

1. a detailed understanding of the development of sustainable development debates over the past two decades.
2. an ability to critically evaluate and categorize alternative definitions of sustainable development
3. an ability to critically evaluate the debates surrounding key international events and assess progress made through these towards sustainable development
4. effective use of the COSE learning environment for accessing learning resources, submitting work and interacting with other students.
5. effective intellectual, communication and learning management skills.

Dresner S (2002) The Principles of Sustainable Development, Earthscan
WCED (1987) Our Common Future, Oxford
UNEP (2002) Global Environmental Outlook 3, Earthscan

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

8 hours workshop
112 hours independent study

You will attend a workshop at which you will be introduced to the module content and learning resources and receive instruction in use of the COSE learning environment and other web-based resources. The workshop will also introduce module themes through the use of video and textual resources. Over subsequent weeks you will then work through self-instructional course material providing a structure for reading key texts and papers and specifying tasks to be completed. This work will be undertaken on an individual basis but at various points you will be expected to interact and share material with other students in a designated learning group.

One 2500 word essay (1, 3, 5)

One task 1000 words (2, 4, 5)

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.