Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2021-2022 (archived)
Module GEOL3151: EARTH STRUCTURE AND DYNAMICS
Department: Earth Sciences
GEOL3151: EARTH STRUCTURE AND DYNAMICS
| Type | Open | Level | 3 | Credits | 20 | Availability | Available in 2021/22 | Module Cap | Location | Durham |
|---|
Prerequisites
- GEOL1081, Further Mathematics for Geoscientists.
Corequisites
- None.
Excluded Combination of Modules
- None.
Aims
- To acquire a fundamental understanding of the structure and dynamics of the interior of the Earth, how these are investigated and modelled numerically, and to understand current research approaches.
Content
- Earthquake seismology.
- Heat flow.
- Mantle geodynamics.
Learning Outcomes
Subject-specific Knowledge:
- To understand why earthquakes occur and how they are measured.
- To understand earthquake magnitudes and source physics.
- To understand how to apply seismic observations to image the global Earth.
- To understand the processes by which heat is transferred within the solid Earth.
- To understand the physics behind convection in the Earth.
- To acquire knowledge and understanding of the structure and composition of the Earth across different geological timescales.
- To acquire knowledge and understanding of Earth materials.
Subject-specific Skills:
- Manipulate earthquake data to extract key parameters.
- Solve numerical problems using both computer-based and paper-based techniques.
- Critically evaluate the assumptions and uncertainties inherent in a model or analysis.
- Make simplifying assumptions to enable analysis of a complex geological problem or situation.
- Acquire the skills to synthesise data from a variety of sources.
- Acquire the skills to analyse, evaluate and interpret geophysical and geological data.
Key Skills:
- Develop problem-solving skills, initiative and persistence in tackling unfamiliar and challenging questions through supervised practical work and summative assessments.
- Develop skills to discuss, evaluate, and review work with colleagues through discussion.
- Evaluate and reflect on assumptions and uncertainties in analysis through supervised practial work and summative assessments.
Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module
- The module is delivered through a mix of one-hour lecture and two hour practical slots, supported by handouts, directed reading and web-based material.
- The practicals provide opportunities to apply principles, concepts and theory to case studies and practical examples.
- Guidance on preparation, key and exam skills is provided.
Teaching Methods and Learning Hours
| Activity | Number | Frequency | Duration | Total/Hours | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lectures | 20 | Weekly | 1 Hour | 20 | ■ |
| Practicals | 20 | 2 Hours | 40 | ■ | |
| Reading and study of class hand-outs, preparation for and execution of formative and summative assessments, background reading both directed and independent, and revision for summer examinations. | 140 | ||||
| Total | 200 |
Summative Assessment
| Component: Examination | Component Weighting: 60% | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Element | Length / duration | Element Weighting | Resit Opportunity |
| Two-hour unseen written examination | 100% | ||
| Component: Continual Assessment | Component Weighting: 40% | ||
| Element | Length / duration | Element Weighting | Resit Opportunity |
| Assignment - Essay or Presentation | 50% | ||
| Class Test | 50% | ||
Formative Assessment:
■ 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