2024/25 Taught Postgraduate Module Catalogue
CIVE5370M Indoor and Urban Air Quality
15 creditsClass Size: 70
Module manager: Dr Marco-Felipe King
Email: M.F.King@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable
Year running 2024/25
This module is not approved as an Elective
Module summary
This dynamic module explores the critical aspects of indoor and urban air quality, focusing on the sources, dispersion, and impacts of airborne contaminants, including microorganisms, on health and the environment. Through a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, students will delve into the regulatory frameworks, analyse air quality issues using cutting-edge sensor data, and examine engineering solutions for mitigating pollution.Key Highlights: - Comprehensive Understanding: Gain in-depth knowledge of the factors affecting air quality and the latest methodologies for assessing and managing air pollution.- Applied Learning: Engage in hands-on activities, including quizzes, group projects, and creative assignments like poster and video creation, to apply concepts in real-world scenarios.- Collaborative Research: Work in teams to research air quality challenges, developing skills in coordination, communication, and problem-solving.- Expert Feedback: Benefit from a variety of formative feedback mechanisms, including consultation sessions, peer reviews, and a dedicated revision class for exam preparation.Objectives
Key Highlights:- Comprehensive Understanding: Gain in-depth knowledge of the factors affecting air quality and the latest methodologies for assessing and managing air pollution.
- Applied Learning: Engage in hands-on activities, including quizzes, group projects, and creative assignments like poster and video creation, to apply concepts in real-world scenarios.
- Collaborative Research: Work in teams to research air quality challenges, developing skills in coordination, communication, and problem-solving.
- Expert Feedback: Benefit from a variety of formative feedback mechanisms, including consultation sessions, peer reviews, and a dedicated revision class for exam preparation.
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of the module, students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes (contributing to the AHEP4 learning outcomes):
1. Evaluate sources, dispersion mechanisms, and impacts of indoor and outdoor contaminants, including the scientific principles and transport mechanisms. (AHEP 4 Learning Outcomes M2, M3);
2. Demonstrate critical analysis of engineering solutions such as ventilation and air cleaning technologies, applying analytical methods to assess the fate of contaminants and their mitigation. (AHEP 4 Learning Outcomes M5, M6);
3. Evaluate health and environmental impacts of air pollution with a critical understanding of current research, methodologies, and their uncertainties, demonstrating an integrated approach to problem-solving. (AHEP 4 Learning Outcome M7, M8);
4. Assess cross-disciplinary challenges in air quality management, employing knowledge of technical and socio-economic solutions in both developed and developing contexts. (AHEP 4 Learning Outcomes M11, M9);
5. Utilise experimental data and models for risk assessment and engineering solution evaluation, critically interpreting data quality and confidence levels. (AHEP 4 Learning Outcome M3, M12);
6. Understand regulatory frameworks and the professional role in designing and implementing air quality solutions, incorporating sustainable development principles. (AHEP 4 Learning Outcome M7, M8);
7. Conduct and manage team research into air quality challenges, effectively coordinating and delivering comprehensive research findings. (AHEP 4 Learning Outcome M16, M17).
This module contributes to AHEP 4 Learning Outcomes M2, M3, M5, M6, M7, M8, M9, M11, M12, M16 and M17.
Skills outcomes
Following the module, students will have gained:
Academic:
- Research Skills: Ability to conduct comprehensive literature reviews, design experiments, and analyse data using statistical and modelling tools.
- The ability to plan time, prioritise tasks and organise academic and personal commitments effectively.
- An ability to extract and evaluate pertinent data and to apply engineering analysis techniques in the solution of water management problems.
Digital:
- Data Analysis: Proficiency in applying mathematical modelling and risk analysis techniques to interpret data from air quality studies.
- Digital Literacy: Utilise digital tools for data management, analysis (e.g., air quality modelling software), and communication of findings.
Enterprise:
- The ability to search for, evaluate and use appropriate and relevant information sources to help strengthen the quality of academic work and independent research.
Sustainability Skills:
- Understands and evaluates multiple outcomes; their own visions for the future; applies the precautionary principle; assesses the consequences of actions; deals with risks and changes; uses scenario planning.
- Applies different problem-solving frameworks to complex sustainable development problems; develops viable, inclusive and equitable solutions; utilises appropriate competencies to solve problems; develops innovative and creative solutions.
Work ready:
- Project Management: Plan, execute, and manage projects, ensuring timely delivery of objectives and effective resource utilization.
- Teamwork: Efficiently work within a team setting, assigning roles, collaborating on projects, and presenting unified outcomes.
- Problem Solving: Apply logical and creative thinking to solve complex air quality issues, considering environmental, sustainability, and health impacts.
- Communication: Effective written and oral communication of technical and non-technical information to a range of audiences.
Syllabus
AIRBORNE POLLUTANTS AND THEIR SOURCES
- Types of pollutants and evidence for their impact;
- Dispersion and deposition of pollutants;
- Aerosol mechanics.
REGULATORY FRAMEWORK
- WHO guidelines;
- EU/UK regulation.
OUTDOOR AIR QUALITY
- Air quality and transport;
- Air quality, weather and climate;
- Solutions through urban design.
INDOOR AIR QUALITY
- Challenges in different countries/environments;
- Measuring and modelling indoor environmental conditions;
- Ventilation;
- Investigating IAQ;
- Engineering solutions.
AIRBORNE INFECTION
- Introduction to aerobiology and airborne infection;
- Modelling airborne infection risk;
- Control strategies and technologies.
Teaching methods
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
| Consultation | 1 | 2.00 | 2.00 |
| Group learning | 2 | 8.00 | 16.00 |
| Lecture | 24 | 1.00 | 24.00 |
| Practical | 2 | 3.00 | 6.00 |
| Seminar | 2 | 3.00 | 6.00 |
| Private study hours | 96.00 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 54.00 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 150.00 | ||
Private study
Reading research papers, guidance and policy documents, group and individual work to prepare assessed seminars, revision for exam.Opportunities for Formative Feedback
Students will benefit from a range of formative feedback methods designed to enhance their understanding and skills:- Group Presentation Feedback: Before the final presentation, students can discuss their plans in consultation sessions, receiving tailored guidance. Post-presentation, both verbal and written feedback will highlight strengths and areas for improvement.
- In-Class Quizzes: Regular quizzes, conducted individually and in teams, offer instant feedback through electronic systems or peer evaluation, helping clarify concepts and foster teamwork.
- Creative Projects: Through designing posters and producing videos on air quality challenges, students engage in deep research and creative expression, with peer feedback enriching their learning experience.
- Exam Preparation Support: A revision class prior to exams helps address any uncertainties, ensuring students are well-prepared.
Methods of assessment
Coursework
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
| Presentation | Group research presentation & short group report | 30.00 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 30.00 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
Exams
| Exam type | Exam duration | % of formal assessment |
| Open Book exam | 3 hr 00 mins | 70.00 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Exams) | 70.00 | |
Re-sit - 100% open book exam.
Reading list
There is no reading list for this moduleLast updated: 29/04/2024 16:12:18
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