2008/09 Undergraduate Module Catalogue

GEOG2940 Fundamentals of Geomorphology

10 creditsClass Size: 120

Module manager: Dr Katherine Arrell
Email: K.Arrell@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable

Year running 2008/09

This module is approved as an Elective

Module summary

Geomorphology is all around us, yet our knowledge of land-forming processes is still limited, especially under changing environmental conditions. This knowledge is crucial for effective and sensitive land management practices. This module will introduce geomorphological processes, landforms and landscape evolution in several different environments. We will emphasise concepts of space and time, controls and reactions, and methods of field and remote study. Current and topical research will be complemented with case studies and a local fieldtrip. Key topics will include weathering and erosion, slope and mass movements, fluvial and alpine geomorphology.

Objectives

By the end of this module students who have engaged well with the syllabus should:
1. Demonstrate an understanding of the role of temporal and spatial scale in geomorphology
2. Have developed an understanding of earth surface processes operating in a range of environments
3. Articulate a coherent understanding of the role of process and system interactions in a landscape

Skills outcomes
Transferable Skills
A Knowledge and Understanding
A2 The diversity of global environments and the operation of, and inter-relationships between physical and biological systems over a wide range of spatial and temporal scales
A3 Patterns and processes of environmental change and their inter-relationships with human activities
A9 The theory and application of quantitative, visualisation and other spatial techniques across a wide range of geographical contexts

B Cognitive skills
B1 Abstraction and synthesis of information from a variety of sources
B2 Assessment and critical evaluation of the merits of contrasting theories, explanations, policies
B3 Critical analysis and interpretation of data and text
B4 Developing reasoned arguments
B5 Solving problems and making reasoned decisions

C Practical/professional skills
C1 Plan, design, execute and report geographical research both individually and as part of a team
C2 Undertake effective laboratory and field work (with due regard for safety and risk assessment)
C3 Employ a variety of technical and laboratory-based methods for the analysis and presentation of spatial and environmental information (e.g. GIS, water chemistry, etc)
C4 Collect, interpret and synthesise different types of quantitative and qualitative geographical data
C5 Recognise the ethical issues involved in geographical debates and enquiries

D Key skills
D1 Learn in familiar and unfamiliar situations
D2 Communicate effectively (in writing, verbally and through graphical presentations)
D3 Apply numerical and computational skills to geographical information
D4 Use information technology effectively (including use of spreadsheet, database and word processing programmes; Internet and e-mail)
D5 Identify, retrieve, sort and exchange geographical information using a wide range of sources
D6 Work as part of a team and to recognise and respect the viewpoints of others
D7 Manage time and organise work effectively

Syllabus

This module will introduce geomorphological processes, landforms and landscape evolution in several different environments. Emphasising concepts, methods and current research, numerous case studies and a local fieldtrip are included. Effects of climate variability upon geomorphological systems will be examined. Key topics will include:

1. Geomorphological concepts
2. Geomorphological methods
3. Weathering and erosion
4. Slope and mass movements
5. Fluvial geomorphology (1)
6. Fluvial geomorphology (2)
7. Alpine geomorphology (1)
8. Alpine geomorphology (2)
9. Landforms and climate
10. Geomorphological systems and a changing climate

Teaching methods

Delivery type	Number	Length hours	Student hours
Fieldwork	1	10.00	10.00
Lecture	10	1.00	10.00
Private study hours			80.00
Total Contact hours			20.00
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits)			100.00

Private study

25 hours reading to support individual lectures
35 hours reading, bibliographical research and preparation for assessed report
20 hours revision and preparation for examination

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

Through weekly discussions at the start of each lecture

Methods of assessment

Coursework

Assessment type	Notes	% of formal assessment
Project	1,000 word equivalent	40.00
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework)		40.00

Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated

Exams

Exam type	Exam duration	% of formal assessment
Standard exam (closed essays, MCQs etc)	1 hr 15 mins	60.00
Total percentage (Assessment Exams)		60.00

Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated

Reading list

The reading list is available from the Library website

Last updated: 29/04/2009

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