GEOL2317: Frontiers in Palaeontology

• None.

• GEOL2347 Ancient Life and its Environment

• None.

• This research-led module will train students in scientific research methods, critical thinking, communication and evaluation.
• Students will develop research and presentation skills by addressing current controversies in palaeontology.
• By engaging with active scientific debates, students will learn to weigh evidence, to balance and present competing perspectives, and to navigate uncertainty

• Understanding data quality and biases in the geological record.
• Using big data and molecular evidence to constrain evolutionary timing, patterns and processes.
• Research frontiers: student-directed analysis and discussion of current research controversies.

Subject-specific Knowledge:

• Through research-oriented learning students will develop a depth of knowledge and research skills in palaeontology, and of more general applicability. The module emphasizes skills that underpin independent research and persuasive communication, equipping students to prepare effective reports and dissertations.
• The role and limitations of the fossil and geological records in understanding Earth history.
• Principles of molecular clock analysis.

Subject-specific Skills:

• Evaluating and understanding the quality of data and research.
• Independent discovery, synthesis and evaluation of scientific literature.

Key Skills:

• Discovery, synthesis and understanding of information.
• Communication of novel findings to peers and end-users.
• Persuasive communication.
• Narrative structure and clarity.
• Independent critical analysis.
• Adaptable, flexible, innovative and creative approaches to work and problem solving.
• Ability to set goals, work to deadlines and accept personal responsibility.

• The module follows a 'flipped classroom' approach. Asynchronous learning underpins flexible three-hour classroom sessions that include practical exercises, group discussion and peer presentations.
• Student-led presentation, debate and critical analysis of current research controversies teaches students how to interact with and independently evaluate the primary literature.
• Assessment comprises: working collaboratively to create a microsite that argues for a position on an active controversy; and an evidence-based essay rebutting a given position.

Formative exercises are structured to support learning with opportunities to apply and develop new skills, and to receive timely and targeted feedback.

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