Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

Familiarity, preferably at Bachelor degree level (or equivalent prior experience or accredited learning) with critical evaluation of complex issues involving finance, planning, policy, management, etc coupled with an awareness of economic, environmental, political and societal contexts. Evidence (possibly pre-Bachelor degree level) of some basic mathematical facility and awareness of scientific thought. For non-native speakers, evidence of English language competence (to a minimum of IELTS 6.5 or equivalent, with higher levels of attainment strongly recommended).

Co Requisite Comment

Non-native speakers of English whose current level of attainment is less than UELA 70 or IELTS 7.0 (or recognised equivalent) in all four aspects of communication (Listening, Speaking, Reading, Writing) should be attending the non- credit-bearing in-sessional English language support classes provided by the University.

Aims

The aim of the module is to provide students with an appreciation of the political and ethical context of renewable energy at international, national and local level and for students to be able to critically review Government energy strategies.

Outline Of Syllabus

The module provides students with the 'sustainability' context for renewable energy (whether in the form of electricity, heat or transport), to critically review Government energy policies and strategies and to form a view on whether these are adequate to achieve renewable energy and GHG emissions commitments. Energy is a global issue, this module will look at how different nations deal with energy issues and how government policy drive the uptake of renewable energy systems.

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

It is anticipated that students who successfully complete this module will be able to:
• Identify the key political and ethical issues associated with renewable energy projects.
• Understand the policies which influence the development of renewable energy at international, EU, UK and local
level.
• Understand broader, non-technical issues which should determine the use of particular renewable energy
technologies.
• Have an appreciation of the public’s attitudes to and perceptions of renewable energy projects and the
potential need for education.
• Have an appreciation of environmental impact issues in the broader context of ‘sustainability’ and the need to
address global as well as local issues.
Critically evaluate and integrate the diverse factors into decisions relating to the politics of renewable energy.

Intended Skill Outcomes

Subject specific skills:

Students will be able to demonstrate a systematic understanding of the relevance of diverse economic, societal & environmental impacts on renewable energy projects.


Cognitive skills:

Students will be able to demonstrate informed decision making skills whilst considering a range of issues including politics and ethics.


Key Skills:

Employment of communication skills through assessed work, group work and class discussions.
Plan and manage study time
Ability to work in a team or alone.
Use of a variety of IT skills.

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

At Masters level the focus is on guided independent study and group supported learning. Online guided learning material is delivered to students via Canvas. The In Person lectures, online sessions and discussion boards will provide students with the opportunity to discuss concepts with lecturers and their peers to consolidate their understanding. Information literacy, interpersonal communication, planning and organisation, numeracy and written communication will be practiced throughout, and assessed in the assignment

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The Formative Assessment will give the students the task of working together to research and present information. This has the benefit of cohort building and facilitating initial engagement with library resources. Discussion boards facilitate learning and engagement.

The coursework assignment will provide students with the opportunity to develop and demonstrate their comprehensive and systematic knowledge and understanding of the politics and ethics associated with renewable energy.

General Notes

N/A