Introduction to geobiology
- ECTS credits10
- Teaching semesterAutumn
- Course codeGEOV114
- Number of semesters1
- LanguageNorwegian
- Resources
Level of Study
Full-time
Teaching semester
Autumn
Objectives and Content
Objectives:
The course aims to give an introduction to Earth as a dynamical system in which the biosphere is an active component. Through the deep history of the complex Earth system, key processes and their interactions have evolved. The course will impart an understanding of fundamental geobiological processes, documented large-scale changes, as well as the role of humans in, and their impact on, the Earth system.
Content:
The course will convey how key biological processes (e.g. photosynthesis, biomineralisation) have affected the Earth system (e.g. atmospheric chemistry, global biogeochemical cycles). The course further addresses the coupling between the evolution of life on Earth and large-scale changes in palaeogeography and global climate, using examples from the geological history of Norway.
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 can
¿ explain key terms, definitions and theories (e.g. geologic time, the Earth system, geobiology, the carbon cycle, evolution)
¿ explain and discuss how the geo- and biosphere can affect each other (e.g. biogeochemical cycles)
¿ demonstrate how the geological timescale is constructed and organized hierarchically and systematically
¿ discuss the consequences of different geodynamic processes (e.g. changes in paleogeography, volcanism) for the evolution of oceans, climate, and life
¿ outline the main features of the history of life on Earth, with examples from the fossil record
Skills
The student can
- perform quantitative analyses (e.g. estimate extinction rates from global fossil databases) and summarize data/results graphically
- program simple dynamical models (e.g. a two-box model of the carbon cycle) and discuss dynamic behaviour (e.g. feedbacks)
- interpret (read and explain) graphs and figures with Earth system data (e.g. time series)
- explain and discuss interactions between geosphere and biosphere
- perform basic search for relevant Earth science literature and cite sources properly
General competence
The student can
- use a precise language to describe and discuss processes and events
- acknowledge, assess and communicate human dependence and impact on the Earth system
- demonstrate the ability to function individually and behave ethically in cooperation with others
- perform laboratory and field work in compliance with GEO/UiB health and safety regulations
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, lab exercises, seminars, and an excursion.
Lectures and/or seminars, 2 hours per week for 11 weeks
Exercises, 4 hours per week for 11 weeks
Excursion, 4 days per week for 1 week
Compulsory Assignments and Attendance
Exercises, seminars and excursion. Approved compulsory activities are valid for 2 semesters after course completion
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 failAssessment 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.
Contact
Contact Information
Student counsellor Department of Earth Science, email: studiekonsulent@geo.uib.no