University Geoscience UK
COVID-19 position statement
UGUK, the subject association of geoscience departments/schools based within universities in the British Isles, has been discussing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on geoscience teaching in universities across the UK
The consensus is that a “business as usual” approach for teaching and learning in the field and laboratory will, regrettably, still not be possible for most departments. Instead it seems likely that UK universities will need to adapt teaching methods to reflect the prevailing threat from COVID-19 at different times throughout the coming academic year, in order to protect the health, safety and well-being of all students and staff while also ensuring that all our future geoscience graduates continue to be well trained and well prepared for their next steps in study and employment.
For this reason, all geoscience departments from across the sector will be working closely together to adapt and enhance delivery of our high-quality and rewarding degree courses as COVID-19 Alert levels change, especially fieldwork and laboratory elements, and aim to resume field-based and laboratory teaching as soon as it is safe to do so.
Introduction
University Geoscience UK is the subject association of geoscience departments/schools based within universities in the British Isles (including geology, applied geology, Earth science, geophysics, geochemistry and some environmental science). Formerly known as CHUGD, University Geoscience UK promotes discussion and exchange of information between departments/schools, and provides a point of contact between these and professional, government and quality control agencies. Membership is at departmental/school rather than individual level and all heads of department/school, or their nominees, are ex officio departmental/school representatives.
Functions
The purpose of University Geoscience UK is:
- To provide a forum for discussion, expression of opinion and development of common approach in matters of importance to university departments, such relating to teaching and research.
- To represent the interests of, and speak on behalf of, geoscience departments on advisory, discussion, assessment and management panels.
- To encourage good practice, innovation and dissemination of information and material resources amongst geoscience departments.
- To provide a focal and formal point of contact for the university geoscience community with government agencies, quality control agencies, the research councils and the higher education funding councils, as required from time to time.
- To represent the interests of the university geoscience community in relation to quality assessment panels, such as for the teaching quality assessment and research assessment exercises.
- To provide a channel of communication and operational liaison between the university geoscience community and professional bodies such as the Geological Society of London and the Earth Science Teachers Association.
- To monitor developments and changes in the provision of geoscience teaching and research within universities in the British Isles and generate information and databases as resources permit.