Geography Taught Masters: Learning and Teaching

How we teach:

We create engaging learning environments to fit each module theme. We combine small and large-group teaching, practical activities and discussion in the classroom and a range of marked and unmarked learning activities to support skills development.

• Lectures
  • Overview of learning objectives
  • Introduction to key concepts
  • Historical and political context
• Seminars, Workshops, Tutorials
  • Small and large group discussion
  • Real-world scenarios
  • Deep engagement with readings, lectures
• Practical Sessions
  • Hands-on learning activities
  • Practice using research methods
  • Work with different kinds of data
• Guided Independent Study
  • 1:1 research project supervision
  • Preparatory readings & tasks for each session
  • Guided research for assignments

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How we support your learning:

We use a range of marked and unmarked assignments to help students develop skills and specialized knowledge:

• Unmarked feedback on assignment preparation
• Small group discussion
• Verbal instructor and peer feedback on ideas

Tailored Support

• Academic Advising
• Dissertation Supervision
• 1:1 meetings with staff
• Key staff contact for questions, concerns

How we assess your progress:

• Research Dissertations & Consultative Reports
• Essays & Research Reports
• Written Examinations
• Oral Presentations
• Podcasts
• Portfolios

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Developing your skills at Durham University

Durham University’s Academic Skills Centre has recently expanded their student-focussed training, particularly for international and taught masters students. They offer student-led online training, completed in your own time, and in-person taught sessions. These cover areas like:

• Drop-in sessions
• 1:1 advice
• Academic Writing in the Science & Social Sciences
• Avoiding plagiarism in your work
• Making effective presentations
• Digital Skills: MS Suite, NVIVO, EndNote, LaTeX, R, SPSS
• Time & Project Management
• Referencing Academic Literature

These short sessions are available throughout the year to support students as they move through their programmes.

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Access to Employers and Cutting-Edge Research

Students benefit from the active involvement of the Institute for Hazards, Risk and Resilience (IHRR). The IHRR organises an annual seminar series and Careers in Risk event, both of which draw from the IHRR’s impressive network of practitioners, policy-makers and researchers. These events give our students direct access to our research and alumni networks. Student have multiple opportunities to learn how to put their learning into practice.

Be social. Be informed. Be a part of Durham Geography.