Prerequisites for Module
Introductory Microbiology (AS1010) or equivalent.
Corequisite Modules
Refer to Definitive Course Document.
Precluded Modules
Refer to Definitive Course Document.
Aims of Module
To provide students with the ability to recognise the complex processes found in the aquatic environment.
Learning Outcomes for Module
On completion of this module, students are expected to be able to:
| 1. |
Assess the impact of water pollution on aquatic ecosystems.
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| 2. |
Discuss how potable water is produced.
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| 3. |
Discuss how wastewater is managed and treated.
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| 4. |
Evaluate the role of water and disease.
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Indicative Module Content
Processes in the aquatic environment: The water cycle; occurence and characteristics of natural waters - physical and chemical processes; assessment of water quality; oxygen transfer; dissolved oxygen and biochemical oxygen demand; parameters of organic content in water quality; biotic indices and ecological perspectives.
Water Treatment; quantity, water quality standards and sources of supply; pre-treatment sedimentation; coagulation; flocculation; filtration; disinfection; advanced treatment; delivery. Local examples - problems and solutions.
Wastewater Treatment Processes; primary, secondary treatment; activated sludge systems; attached growth systems; advanced treatment; disinfection. Local examples - problems and solutions. Alternative technologies.
| Water and disease; sanitation and population growth. Sources, symptoms and prevention of disease (viral, bacterial and parasitic).
Water Pollution: Measurement: understand characteristics and mechanism within the environment; examination of historical events, the consequent impact on aquatic ecosystems and to human health.
Indicative Student Workload
Contact Hours
| Full Time | Lectures
| 11 | Tutorials/Seminars
| 22 | Assessment
| 2 | Field Trip
| 7 |
Directed Study
| | Directed Study
| 20 |
Private Study
| | Private Study
| 88 |
Mode of Delivery
This course is based on a combination of lectures and tutorials delivered during a three hour period once a week throughout the semester. Two field trips form an integral part of the course.
Assessment Plan
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Learning Outcomes Assessed
| | Coursework | 1,4
| | Examination | 1,2,3,4
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The coursework consists of 2 oral class presentations on 2 topics researched by the students (pollution and water related disease) providing opportunity for study in greater detail.
The examination is closed book.
Indicative Bibliography
| 1. | KEILY, G., 1998. Environmental engineering. ed.:McGraw-Hill.
| | 2. | Open University Course T237 texts Units 1-7.
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