Field Course in Quarternary Geology and Palaeoclimatology

Objectives and Content

Objectives:
The course aims to provide the student the knowledge and skills to complete a Quaternary geologic field survey, prepare a Quaternary geological map and write a final report from field investigations.

Content:
Different topics from the curriculum literature to the subject form the basis for a group thematic report presented by the students at a seminar a few days before departure. During the field course, an introduction to Quaternary geological field methods and mapping techniques will be presented. The first and last part of the field course consists of excursion to selected Quaternary geological sites in Nordfjord, Gudbrandsdalen and Østerdalen. At several locations, students conduct individual investigations either individually or in smaller groups. Students write individual diary reports from the excursion days that provide the basis for updating the group-based theme report. During the survey part, students are divided into smaller groups that prepare Quaternary geological maps of a selected area. Quaternary geological deposits are described and their genesis is discussed and interpreted. The mapping part (3 days) forms the basis for a group report, submitted at the end of the field course. Both the group report and the theme report form the basis for whether the student passes the subject or not.

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 glacial geological terms and definitions
• can explain how the temperature regime (polar/temperate) in a glacier affects erosion and deposition
• can explain how small-scale erosion and deposition forms are created
• can explain how glacial landscapes are formed
• can explain the genesis and classification of glacially deposited landforms
• can explain how melt water deposits can be used to reconstruct ice sheets
• can explain how to reconstruct floods in the past
• has acquired knowledge about the Quaternary geology and single localities in areas that are visited during the field course

Skills
The student can:

• make independent field observations
• know geological processes and glacial geological erosion and accumulation forms
• recognise areas affected by polar and temperate glaciers and ice sheets
• describe and interpret glacial erosion and deposition forms in the field
• write individual field diary
• prepare and report field data in writing and oral, and display data graphically
• justify interpretations
• prepare a Quaternary geological map according to a set standard
• interpret graphs and figures
• conduct searches for relevant literature as well as refer to literature and set up reference/literature list

General competence
The student can

• use a precise geological language for describing and discussing geological processes and events
• recognize, evaluate and communicate humanity's role in, our independence of, and impact on the geosystem
• demonstrate ability to function individually and ethically together with fellow students
• conduct fieldwork during the excursion in accordance with GEO/UiB's HSE guidelines

Required Previous Knowledge

GEOV101, GEOV102, GEOV105, GEOV110

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 teaching will be in the form of seminars and teaching in the field.

Compulsory Assignments and Attendance

Compulsory assignments are valid for 2 subsequent semesters.

Forms of Assessment

The forms of assessment are:

• Portfolio evaluation (theme report and field report)
• Individual oral examination

Grading Scale

Passed / failed.

Assessment Semester

Spring. Assessment is only provided in semesters with teaching.

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.

Course Coordinator

The course coordinator and administrative contact person can be found on Mitt UiB, or you may contact studierettleiar@geo.uib.no

Course Administrator

The Faculty for Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Department of Earth Science has the administrative responsibility for the course and program.