Environmental Studies - Associate Study Module [Level HE4] part-time

This course will support your career development if you are working in the construction industry or are considering a career in the sector. It is a module of the HNC Building Studies but it may also be studied as a standalone course.

You will focus on a study of the scientific principles regarding heat, light and sound in building construction and occupancy. You will learn about the relationship between the natural environment and the microclimate that is created through building occupancy, the impact of the construction process on the microclimate and the effect of industry legislation on these issues.

You will study subjects that are of direct, practical relevance to your work in this area of the construction industry including: Fabric and Ventilation Heat Transfer; Ventilation Rates and Condensation Risk; Renewable Energy Sources; Environmental Emissions; Basic Theory of Natural and Artificial Lighting; Propagation and Transmission of Sound; Insulation against Noise; Acoustic Properties of Construction Materials; Acoustic Design of Rooms.

You will be taught through a mix of lectures, tutorials and seminars with individual attention for students as appropriate.

You will be expected to carry out some unsupervised study. Assessment will be on the basis of coursework in the form of practical sessions, a design brief and a report.

In addition to learning skills and knowledge relevant to the construction industry, you will develop your wider personal skills including teamwork, study and time management, oral and written communication, problem-solving, practical lab skills and IT.