Geomorphology (GG0004)

? Credit Points : 20 ? SCQF Level : 8 ? Acronym : GEO-2-GG0004

This course on the principles of geomorphology looks at the relationship between processes and landforms at a variety of scales in space and time. It examines endogenic processes originating within the earth, exogenic processes occurring at the earth atmosphere ocean interface and the way they interact to create landforms. For perspective the course also explores the geomorphology of other planetary bodies.

Entry Requirements

? Pre-requisites : Prior attendance at Geography B: Physical Geography OR Earth Dynamics AND Evolution of Earth's Environments is normally required.

Subject Areas

Home subject area

Geography, (School of GeoSciences, Schedule N)

Other subject areas

Environmental Courses, (School of GeoSciences, Schedule N)

Delivery Information

? Normal year taken : 2nd year

? Delivery Period : Semester 2 (Blocks 3-4)

? Contact Teaching Time : 2 hour(s) per week for 10 weeks

First Class Information

Date	Start	End	Room	Area	Additional Information
08/01/2007	12:10	13:00	Lecture Theatre 4, Appleton Tower	Central

All of the following classes

Type	Day	Start	End	Area
Lecture	Monday	12:10	13:00	Central
Lecture	Wednesday	12:10	13:00	Central

? Additional Class Information : Practicals as required (Tue 11.10-13.00, Wed 10.00-12.00 or Thur 11.10-13.00); plus tutorials.

Summary of Intended Learning Outcomes

After completing this course, students should possess the following skills and knowledge:
1) Ability to classify and describe landforms in a variety of environmental settings
2) Knowledge of systems theory as applied to geomorphology, specifically with regard to the concepts of feedback, thresholds, and equilibrium
3) Broad understanding of the theories of Uniformitarianism and Catastrophism, and appreciation and knowledge of the history of geomorphological research
4) Awareness of the significance of spatial and temporal scales in geomorphology
5) Ability to analyze geomorphological systems in terms of resisting and driving forces
6) Knowledge of surface processes important in the creation of landforms
7) Ability to quantitatively analyse geomorphological data with numerical, statistical and cartographical methods
8) Understanding of the links between geomorphology and earth sciences such as geology, geophysics, hydrology and geochemistry.
9) Ability to critically appraise specific issues in geomorphology through the detailed study of scientific papers
10) Ability to synthesize and communicate scientific findings by writing essays and by discussion in a small group tutorial format
11) Ability to analyze relationships between physical and human aspects of environments and landscapes

Assessment Information

3 tutorial assignments of 600 words each, essay of 1500 words and 2 practical assignments.

Degree assessment: 1500 word essay = 35%, One two-hour exam (Multiple choice + problems) = 65%, providing it is a pass; resit exam = 100%.