Module GEOG40730: SEA-LEVEL CHANGE HAZARDS

Department: Geography

GEOG40730: SEA-LEVEL CHANGE HAZARDS

Prerequisites

• None.

Corequisites

• None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None.

Aims

• This is a science-based module aimed at students wishing to develop postgraduate level knowledge about the discipline of sea-level science, including methods of reconstruction, large scale processes which cause sea-level change and the latest research into forecasting future sea-level changes.

Content

• Global models of past sea-level change
• Methods of sea-level measurement
• Future sea-level rise scenarios and predictions
• Effects of abrupt events such as tsunamis and earthquakes
• Coastal responses to future sea-level rise

Learning Outcomes

• Understanding of the mechanisms causing sea-level change; past, present and future
• Critical evaluation of proxy and direct methods of measuring sea-level change
• Critical appraisal of predictions of future sea-level change
• Understanding of how coastlines respond to sea-level change
• Understanding of different types of abrupt sea-level changes, mechanisms which cause them and how we may anticipate future events.

• Geomorphological mapping
• Surveying
• Field sediment analysis
• Use of tidal surveying equipment
• Laboratory sediment analysis techniques
• Examination of quantitative data sources including large datasets
• Use of quantitative and conceptual models of sea-level change

• Critical evaluation of published data
• Technical skills in the field, laboratory and in effective use of IT
• Development of research skills – formulating research objectives, logistical planning and measuring outcomes against these objectives

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• The first module aim is concerned with understanding sea-level changes in the geological past. We will use a science-based approach to examine global, regional and local changes in sea level from the last glacial maximum to the present. This will follow a hands-on approach with methods and techniques of sea-level reconstruction learnt through a 3-5 day residential field class and associated workshop, followed by four practical classes involving laboratory work (2) and analysing quantitative datasets (2). In addition there will be 5 lectures and a summative poster in this section. The second module aim focuses on the instrumental era (~ last 100 years) in recording sea-level changes and future predictions of sea-level change. Again this take a hands on approach with 4 lectures followed by 2 practicals on handling and analysing instrumental data, field classes examining evidence for current and future coastal change and a project resulting in an individual summative poster and oral defence of the poster examining the potential impacts of future sea-level change on local coastlines. The project will have an associated workshop (surgery).

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

Feedback on field notebook developed during the field class and subsequent practicals in term 1. NB: formative work is a compulsory part of this module.

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University