| CODE | DGP0487 | ||||||
| TITLE | Gardening: The Living Roof Project | ||||||
| 今日黑料 LEVEL | 00 - Mod Pre-Tert, Foundation, Proficiency & DegreePlus | ||||||
| EQF/MQF LEVEL | Not Applicable | ||||||
| ECTS CREDITS | Not Applicable | ||||||
| DEPARTMENT | Degree Plus Programme | ||||||
| DESCRIPTION | This unit provides students with a unique hands-on learning experience focused on the upkeep and management of the green roof at the Faculty for the Built Environment. Framed as a living laboratory, it combines practical gardening activities with guided reflection on the role of green infrastructure in urban environments. Through active participation, students will develop a sense of ownership and belonging within the University while gaining practical skills in horticulture, plant management, and seasonal maintenance. The module also introduces key concepts related to urban greening, including environmental performance, biodiversity, and the contribution of green spaces to human well-being. The unit emphasises learning through experience, peer collaboration, and environmental awareness. Assessment is based on active participation and attendance. Objectives: By the end of the module, students should be able to: Knowledge & Awareness - Understand the role of green roofs within urban environments; - Recognise the environmental, social, biological and health benefits of urban greening; - Identify basic components of a green roof system (vegetation, substrate, drainage, etc.). Practical Skills - Carry out basic horticultural maintenance tasks (weeding, pruning, replanting); - Monitor plant health and identify common issues (stress, pests, nutrient deficiency); - Apply appropriate watering and seasonal care practice. Values & Engagement - Develop a sense of stewardship and responsibility towards shared green spaces - Appreciate the importance of maintaining urban ecological infrastructure - Engage collaboratively in outdoor, hands-on activities Unit Material: The unit content is delivered through a combination of an initial introductory session and a series of practical, site-based activities. Following the introductory session, learning is structured around themes that emerge from the condition on the green roof and seasonal requirements during the module period. Introductory Session - Overview of green roofs: types, functions, and benefits - Role of green roofs in urban environments and human well-being - Introduction to the specific green roof system at the Faculty - Health and safety briefing and familiarisation with tools Indicative Thematic Areas (Addressed as Required) - Rather than fixed weekly topics, the following areas are explored in response to on-site needs: Vegetation Management - Identification of plant species - Weeding and control of invasive or undesirable species - Pruning and plant replacement where necessary - Monitoring plant health and stress Irrigation and Water Management,/u> - Watering practices adapted to climatic conditions - Recognising signs of under- or over-irrigation - Efficient use of water resources Substrate and Soil Condition - Observing substrate depth and condition - Identifying compaction, erosion, or nutrient issues - Light interventions to improve growing conditions Drainage and System Performance - Inspection and clearing of drainage outlets - Identifying signs of poor drainage or ponding - Understanding the relationship between drainage and plant health Seasonal Maintenance Practices - Responding to climatic conditions (e.g. heat, drought, wind exposure) - Adjusting maintenance practices accordingly - Preparing the roof for seasonal transitions Biodiversity and Ecological Value - Observing flora and fauna interactions - Supporting pollinators and habitat value - Understanding ecological benefits of green roofs General Upkeep and Stewardship - Safe use of tools and equipment - Collaborative work practices - Developing responsibility for shared green spaces Reflection and Awareness - Informal discussions during sessions - Linking practical work to broader urban sustainability themes - Encouraging critical thinking about green infrastructure Assessment: Participants are expected to regularly attend sessions, and be actively engages in the practical activities. They are also expected to demonstrate willingness to participate collaboratively. |
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| ADDITIONAL NOTES | This unit may not be offered if there are an insufficient number of applicants. Unit is against a €25 fee. | ||||||
| STUDY-UNIT TYPE | Lecture and Practical | ||||||
| METHOD OF ASSESSMENT |
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| LECTURER/S | Joseph Noel Grima (Co-ord.) |
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The University makes every effort to ensure that the published Courses Plans, Programmes of Study and Study-Unit information are complete and up-to-date at the time of publication. The University reserves the right to make changes in case errors are detected after publication.
The availability of optional units may be subject to timetabling constraints. Units not attracting a sufficient number of registrations may be withdrawn without notice. It should be noted that all the information in the description above applies to study-units available during the academic year 2026/7. It may be subject to change in subsequent years. |
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