Introduction to geobiology

Level of Study

Full-time

Teaching semester

 Autumn

Objectives and Content

Objectives:

In this course, students explore how the evolution of the biosphere has led to fundamental changes in the earth¿s surface environments, geochemical cycles, and climate. The biosphere is a key component of the dynamic system we call the Earth system, which has evolved, through billions of years of biological evolution, into the planet we depend on today. The course aims to provide an understanding of basic geobiological processes and documented large-scale changes, as well as the role of humans and their impact on the Earth system.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of the course the student should have the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence:

Knowledge

The student will

• explain key concepts, definitions and phenomena (e.g. microbial metabolisms, biosphere, geological time scale, evolution)
• explain how the geosphere and biosphere can affect each other (e.g. biogeochemical cycles)
• outline the main features of the history of life on Earth, with paleobiological examples
• discuss how geobiological processes underpin sustainable development goals and potential solutions to these challenges

Skills

The student will

• independently develop computational practices (Python) and use help functions and digital resources to solve problems
• perform quantitative analyses (e.g. estimate extinction rates from global fossil databases) and summarize data and results graphically
• program simple numerical models and discuss dynamic behavior (e.g. feedbacks)
• interpret (read and explain) graphs and figures showing Earth system data (e.g. time series)
• read and summarize relevant scientific primary literature, and cite sources correctly

General competence

The student will

• propose solutions to ill-structured problems in collaboration with others
• use a precise professional language to communicate scientific topics in writing and presentations
• acknowledge and discuss human dependence and impact on Earth systems
• demonstrate the ability to function individually and behave ethically in cooperation with others
• perform laboratory work in compliance with GEO / UiB health and safety regulations
• make productive use of feedback and reflect on own learning

Required Previous Knowledge

 Basic knowledge in geology, geophysics, structural geology, quaternary geology, sedimentology and field training.

Access to the Course

Access to the course requires admission to a programme of study at The Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences

Teaching and learning methods

The course includes lectures teaching activities in a team based seminar room and in a laboratory.

The course is taught in 2- and 4-hour blocks during the week for 11 weeks.

Compulsory Assignments and Attendance

Participation on all teaching acitivites.

Hand in of exercises.

Forms of Assessment

The forms of assessment are: portfolio evaluation

Grading Scale

The grading scale used is A to F. Grade A is the highest passing grade in the grading scale, grade F is a fail

Assessment Semester

Autumn

Reading List

The reading list will be available within June 1st for the autumn semester and December 1st for the spring semester

Course Evaluation

The course will be evaluated by the students in accordance with the quality assurance system at UiB and the department

Programme Committee

The Programme Committee is responsible for the content, structure and quality of the study programme and courses.