MT1CC-The Science of Climate Change

Module Provider: Meteorology
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:4
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites: GCSE Science Grade C
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2021/2

Module Convenor: Prof Nigel Arnell
Email: n.w.arnell@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module provides an introduction to the science of climate change, aimed at students who do not necessarily have a scientific background.

Aims:
This module provides an introduction to the science of climate change, aimed at students who do not necessarily have a scientific background. It provides the background for a deep and informed understanding of one of today􀀒s key global challenges. Why is climate changing, and how will it change in the future? How can we predict future climate? What is a 􀀓dangerous􀀔 climate change? And how can we construct and use knowledge of climate change to inform adaptation and mitigation?

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of the module, the student will be able to:Ìý

• Demonstrate an understanding of the mechanisms and processes behind climate change;

• Demonstrate an ability to interpret and critically evaluate projections of future climate and its impacts;

• Demonstrate an understanding of the current scientific understanding of climate change, and how this informs policy.

Additional outcomes:
The student will gain a sound scientific background for further study into other scientific, social, economic, legal and political dimensions of climate change and responses to it.

Outline content:

• Introduction;

• The climate system Modelling past, present and future climate change;

• Projecting the future;

• The impacts of climate change: what is dangerous?;

• Adapting to climate change;

• Mitigating climate change;

• Overview.

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Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

The module will be lecture-based, using a mix of live and recorded material.

Summative assessment- Examinations:
1.5 hours.