This is a field based module introducing students to field techniques relevant to environmental research. The field course is conducted in an area where the links between the geology, ecology and environmental processes can be explored
By the end of the module students are able to demonstrate:
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The ability to collect important environmental samples within an appropriate sampling framework
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The capability to integrate field evidence with other information
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The ability to present and interpret environmental data
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An understanding of the interrelationships between the geology of an area, soils and biological communities
GEO154/GEO130 - Skills for Environmental Scientists
GEO244/GEO260 - Earth and Ecosystem Dynamics
This module develops understanding of environmental processes, fluxes and interactions across a spectrum of temporal and spatial scales.
Adopting an earth system science approach, the module considers interactions between the geosphere, atmosphere, hydrosphere and biosphere to explore the geomorphological, biophysical, and biogeochemical processes that shape the evolution and contemporary dynamics of the environment.
Knowledge of these processes underpins global climate and earth system models, prediction of environmental responses to change and approaches to conservation and environmental restoration.
By the end of the module students are able to:
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Demonstrate an understanding of the earth-system science, the evolution of the environment
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Demonstrate an understanding of weathering flux sources and sinks, the methods used to quantify fluxes in present and past environments, and the significance of fluxes in global physical processes
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Demonstrate an understanding of ecosystem ecology and biogeochemistry and the significance of element recycling in shaping physical and biological processes, and maintaining the Earth’s life support systems
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Demonstrate an understanding of ecological biogeography and the importance of interactions between biotic and abiotic processes in shaping physical and biological processes at the earth surface
AG204 - Physical Geography of Svalbard (15 ECTS)
The module offers broad knowledge of key topics, theories, processes, tools and methods within the physical geography of Svalbard. Specific knowledge of the linkages between climate, meteorology, geomorphology, hydrology, and ground and glacier ice thermal regimes in permafrost and glacier regions in Svalbard.
AG221 - Arctic Physical Geographical Field Techniques (15 ECTS)
The course will focus on practical field measurement and mapping techniques essential for describing, analysing and communicating results of studies in Arctic landscapes. Techniques within glaciology, hydrology, glacial geomorphology, and Arctic slope processes as well as permafrost science and biogeochemistry will be introduced. Emphasis will be on formulating relevant research questions and design and execution of arctic field campaigns.
