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GG4069: GLACIOLOGY (2017-2018)

Last modified: 25 May 2018 11:16


Course Overview

This course explores the behaviour of glacier ice, its role as an integral part of the climate system and in shaping the environment.  It investigates how glaciers form and flow, the effect this has on their surroundings (erosion, transport and deposition) , and the response and contribution of the cyrosphere to climate change.

Students will learn to: explain the mechanisms of glacial mass balance, dynamics, hydrology, erosion and deposition; evaluate the contribution of glacial fieldwork, remote sensing and modelling to our understanding of the cyrosphere; and assess the impact and response of glaciers and ice sheets on/to climate change.

Course Details

Study Type Undergraduate Level 4
Term First Term Credit Points 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits)
Campus None. Sustained Study No
Co-ordinators
  • Dr Brice Rea

Qualification Prerequisites

  • Either Programme Level 3 or Programme Level 4

What courses & programmes must have been taken before this course?

  • Either GG3569 Techniques in Physical Geography (Passed) or GG3575 Techniques in Physical Geography (Passed)
  • Any Undergraduate Programme (Studied)

What other courses must be taken with this course?

None.

What courses cannot be taken with this course?

None.

Are there a limited number of places available?

No

Course Description

The course will be delivered through a series of inter-related blocks, extending from background theory and concepts to the application of sophisticated, modern day monitoring and modelling approaches used to understand glaciological processes and form. The course will draw upon a wide range of case study material, underpinned by staff research experience from various glaciated regions of the world, including both polar regions.  The course seeks to enhance students' knowledge of the complex character of glacier science.


Contact Teaching Time

Information on contact teaching time is available from the course guide.

Teaching Breakdown

More Information about Week Numbers


Details, including assessments, may be subject to change until 30 August 2024 for 1st term courses and 20 December 2024 for 2nd term courses.

Summative Assessments

1st Attempt: 67% continuous assessment (based on 2 data response exercises); 33% oral examination. Resit: A resit for this course is not normally available until the following academic year.

Formative Assessment

There is no stand-alone, formal formative assessment. However, feedback on summative assessments will help students to improve their subsequent performances within the course and for related second half-session courses.

Feedback

Students will receive individual, written feedback on their coursework using our standard comments sheets.

Course Learning Outcomes

None.

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