Earth Surface Dynamics

Learning Outcomes

Students in this course will acquire the ability to investigate and understand the ways in which a range of Earth surface systems, materials and processes interact to alter the land surface, and the consequences of such alterations for societal assets.


Learning Outcomes

Students who have completed this course satisfactorily will be able to

1. Use a range of modern technologies to identify, describe, and quantify the properties and behaviours of Earth surface systems and subsystems. (NZQF level 6; “demonstrate knowledge and skills related to the ideas, principles, concepts, chief research methods and problem-solving techniques of a recognised major subject”)
2. Infer future properties and behaviours of earth surface systems. (NZQF level 6; “demonstrate intellectual independence, critical thinking and analytic rigour”)
3. Evaluate proposed uses of field sites in the context of Earth surface system processes and behaviour. (NZQF level 6; “demonstrate the skills needed to acquire, understand and assess information from a range of sources”)
4.  Communicate the results of evaluations and analyses through written reports to a scientific audience. (NZQF level 6; “demonstrate communication and collaborative skills”)


Summary of the Course Content

GEOL246 will provide a range of opportunities for students to develop specific attitudes, skills and knowledge through a variety of learning and educational experiences, including:
1. Hands-on learning in understanding how land surface processes work; e.g. mechanics of landslides, soil erosion, river erosion and deposition;
2. Learning to understand how land surface features have developed, e.g. river terraces, hillslopes, alluvial fans, glacial moraines;
3. Analysing, interpreting and mapping landforms both in the field and from remote sensing as the basis for land-use planning (e.g. for sustainable development and disaster risk reduction);
4. Project work and presentations, both individually and in groups, involving information acquisition, analysis, synthesis and reporting.

University Graduate Attributes

This course will provide students with an opportunity to develop the Graduate Attributes specified below:

	Critically competent in a core academic discipline of their award Students know and can critically evaluate and, where applicable, apply this knowledge to topics/issues within their majoring subject.
	Employable, innovative and enterprising Students will develop key skills and attributes sought by employers that can be used in a range of applications.
	Biculturally competent and confident Students will be aware of and understand the nature of biculturalism in Aotearoa New Zealand, and its relevance to their area of study and/or their degree.
	Globally aware Students will comprehend the influence of global conditions on their discipline and will be competent in engaging with global and multi-cultural contexts.

Prerequisites

Recommended Preparation

For further information see School of Earth and Environment .