GE476 Geological Aspects of Western Norway

Contents and structure

The course emphasizes the significance of geological long term environmental reconstructions for the interpretation of ecological short term processes. The first part introduces glacial geology, geomorphology and limnology. Modern fjord and lake environments are investigated to gain knowledge on the processes involved in the deposition of signals from environmental and landscape changes. This knowledge is then used to illustrate how environmental change can be interpreted from the deposition record. The overall understanding of these processes requires an additional understanding of the geological evolution of the surroundings. Thus, the course summarizes in its second part the regional geology of Western Norway through time.

Learning Outcome

Knowledge

The students know how to interpret field data from aquatic environments in terms of recent and ancient environmental change, basing their knowledge on recent scientific research papers and their own practical experience in field and laboratory. In addition, the students are to understand the processes involved in the formation of the regional geology in the area. Identifiy a variety of rock types, fit them to the geological setting, and reflect on how the resulting landscape has developed as a result.

Skills

The students are able to critically apply their geological knowledge on the long term interpretation of ecological and environmental change. They know how to investigate data from aquatic environments, and which methods to be applied for a holistic interpretation of the results. The students get a practical introduction to three and four dimensional geological thinking.

General competence

The students are able to constructively contribute to the development and discussion of scientific projects related to environmental change by adding valuable geological insight.

Entry requirements

None

Recommended previous knowledge

90 ECTS credits achieved within earth sciences, or environmental sciences, or life sciences, or similar study directions at the time of application (15th April every year, for international students). General background in natural sciences is of advantage.

Teaching methods

Six thematic weeks including diverse topics in earth science and ecology, introduced by lectures, exercises, laboratory, field work and excursions.

Students have to be prepared to pay for their food during fieldwork and excursions according to the HVL rules and regulations on accommodation and travel expenses.

Compulsory learning activities

The following work has to be submitted and approved as a prerequisite for participation in the final multiple choice exam of the course

Compulsory written course work requirements

• Reports
  • Vestlands Geology report
    • Group work
    • Summary of lab preperation and field localities to give an overview of the geological history
    • c. 10 pages per report
  • Atløy Geology report
    • Group work
    • Fieldwork based reports on the geological history of Atløy
    • c. 15 pages per report

Oral presentation

• 10 minutes oral presentation of the results from the limnology laboratory
  • Group work
  • After presentation: Answering questions
  • After presentation: Submitting the presentation to the supervisor
  • After presentation: Submitting the raw data to the supervisor

Assessment

Written examination under supervision (multiple choice), 4 hours

Mark scale A-F, with F corresponding to "Not passed"

Examination support material

Dictionaries in the international participant's native language.

More about examination support material