EAE3311 · Oceans and coasts

Overview

In this unit you will apply active learning approaches to examine ocean circulation and mixing, ocean chemistry and productivity, sediment transport in the oceans, and hydrodynamic forces affecting coastlines. Particular attention will be paid to key processes that pose significant management challenges for human societies and the natural world, such as runoff, ocean acidification, eutrophication, coastal erosion, ocean warming and sea level rise.

Areas of study: Earth science Environmental science Geographical science Human geography

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. Evaluate the effect of stream loads, waves and sea levels on coastal geomorphology, and their variation among physiographic, hydrodynamic and climatic environments;
2. Analyse ocean circulation patterns and explain their importance for global climate, marine pollution, carbon and nitrogen cycles, species distributions and local marine management;
3. Quantify the transport of sediments in the oceans and along the coastline;
4. Collect relevant samples and interpret biodiversity and environmental conditions in marine environments;
5. Use Geographical Information Systems (GIS) effectively for spatial and remote sensing data analysis.

Workload

Total 144 hours over 12 weeks, which includes: • One 3-hour practical class per week • An additional practical component conducted over a weekend, comprising a one day field trip, and one day processing field samples in the laboratory and • Additional self-directed learning activities.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.