Transcript title
Field Geo: Landscape Evolution
Credits
3
Grading mode
Standard letter grades
Total contact hours
70
Lecture hours
10
Lab hours
60
Course Description
Introduces students to the processes by which landscapes evolve in a field based setting. Learn how to observe the landscape using methods from field sciences such as geology and ecology, and then apply ideas from these sciences to interpret how landscapes change. The course will take place primarily outdoors, including hiking to field sites and camping for an extended period of time.
Course learning outcomes
1. Observe and describe evidence of landscape evolution.
2. Create and test hypotheses to explain landscape evolution.
3. Construct and communicate an evidence-supported narrative of landscape evolution.
Content outline
- Geologic principles of Landscape Evolution, including topics such as Erosion and Sediment Transport, Mountain Building, Volcanism, Glaciation, and Mass Wasting
- Interdisciplinary principles of Landscape Evolution, including topics such as Ecological Succession, Disturbance Regimes and Climate
- Field science skills including scientific observations and measurements, map reading, and description of basic rock types and plant communities
Required materials
Students will need to supply personal hiking and camping gear, including hiking boots, clothing appropriate for severe weather, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and tent or other shelter. If these supplies are prohibitively costly, additional resources are available, please contact instructor for assistance. Every student should feel encouraged to take this course, regardless of personal equipment.
General education/Related instruction lists
