Modules

Core Module Information
Module title: Environmental Impact Assessment
SCQF level: 11:
SCQF credit value: 20.00
ECTS credit value: 10
Module code: BSV11160
Module leader: Lina Khaddour
School School of Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment
Subject area group: Built Environment
Prerequisites

There are no pre-requisites for this module to be added
Description of module content:

This module aims to provide students with the tools to combine science-based knowledge with construction industry drivers for environmental management purposes. Students will be introduced to a variety of real life case studies dealing with trans-boundary issues, implications of national level regulations to business practice in different countries and monitoring plans. At the end of the module, students will be able to use the skills they have been taught to apply to real world scenarios.
Learning Outcomes for module:

Upon completion of this module you will be able to

LO1: Outline and discuss the principal factors influencing the built environment environmental management decisions (science, engineering, geopolitical and strategic realities, sustainable development, food security, etc.)

LO2: Describe and apply the basic framework of principles and practices that can be used to carry out environmental impact assessments, accounting for climate change and associated impacts into the future

LO3: Demonstrate understanding of the multidisciplinary and trans-boundary nature of environmental management issues in the construction sector

LO4: Apply this knowledge to carry out environmental impact assessment through case studies and tutorials

LO5: Judge through multi criteria decision making and monitoring plans, their limitations, and the need to strike a balance between what is suitable, feasible, cost effective etc.

LO6: Produce a case report which will: discuss the rationale for the work and provide comprehensive background; objectively report the methodology; discuss the results using tables and figures as appropriate; use relevant evidence and accurately reference
Full Details of Teaching and Assessment
2026/7, Trimester 1, In Person,
VIEW FULL DETAILS
Occurrence: 001
Primary mode of delivery: In Person
Location of delivery: MERCHISTON
Partner:
Member of staff responsible for delivering module: Lina Khaddour
Module Organiser:


Student Activity (Notional Equivalent Study Hours (NESH))
Mode of activityLearning & Teaching ActivityNESH (Study Hours)NESH Description
Face To Face Lecture 20 The lectures will deal with will introduce framework of principles and practices that can be used to carry out environmental impact assessments, accounting for climate change and associated impacts into the future (L1,2) by the module leader, industrial visiting lecturers, and research staff.
Face To Face Tutorial 10 Real life case studies with global perspective. The tutorials will deal with practical problems encountered in EIA and will demonstrate understanding of the multidisciinary and trans-boundary nature of environmental management issues in the construction sector.
Online Guided independent study 170 This method combines the independence of self-directed study with the guidance of a structured framework provided by academic staff. Students may have the opportunity to participate in annual Design Innovation Challenges, and retrofitting challenge subject to funding availability. These events often include site visits and a themed design competition in collaboration with industry partners, offering students valuable exposure to real-life challenges and professional feedback from practitioners.
Total Study Hours200
Expected Total Study Hours for Module200


Assessment
Type of Assessment Weighting % LOs covered Week due Length in Hours/Words Description
Report 50 1~2~3 Week 8 , WORDS= 3000 words Groupwork, report and presentation requiring each student to role-play a key stakeholder (e.g. Environmental Manager, Project Manager), encouraging multi-perspective analysis and practical understanding of the EIA process.As part of the presentation students' analyse their development needs and create personal CPD plans to ensure ongoing competence and career progression. The presentation also assesses the groups record of progress, skills learned and development.The assessment has been designed around the Retrofitting Challenge linked to the new Scottish National Retrofitting Centre (SNRC). The coursework is intentionally structured to evidence learning through practice-based and reflective engagement. It integrates:Field visits (including BE-ST and the Scotland National Retrofitting Centre SNRC site)Interactive workshops and digital/immersive learning activities (M18)Industry guest lecturesA final presentation delivered to an academic–industry panel (in partnership with the Centre for Net Zero High Density Buildings, BE-ST, and Wholus).
Project - Written 50 4~5~6 Week 13 , WORDS= 3000 words Students will work in groups to produce an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report for converting the Old Edinburgh High School into sustainable student housing. (M16) Each team member will take on a different stakeholder role—such as environmental manager, project manager, planner, or community representative—to explore the project's impact from multiple perspectives, including sustainability, planning, and public concerns.
Component 1 subtotal: 50
Component 2 subtotal: 50
Module subtotal: 100

Indicative References and Reading List - URL:
Contact your module leader
 

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