To impart an advanced understanding of lithospheric-scale active tectonics, and the ability to carry out mathematical calculations to understand and analyse tectonic processes;

To introduce the students to advanced topics and research frontiers in core/mantle dynamics and evolution;

To improve MATLAB/python programming skills initially acquired in ENVS229;

To develop advanced skills appropriate to understanding and communicating peer-reviewed research literature with a focus on synthesising information from multiple sources.

(LO1) Describe and explain principles and details of active tectonic processes

(LO2) Apply mathematical methods to describe tectonic processes

(LO3) Describe and explain current theories and controversies regarding the dynamics of Earth from its surface to core and the methods used to study these topics.

(LO4) Synthesise information from multiple sources to create a coherent and sophisticated description of our knowledge of deep Earth processes and the uncertainty inherent to these.

(S1) Numeracy

(S2) Critical analysis and synthesis

(S3) Programming

(S4) Communication – written & oral

This module consists of two parts. Part 1 focuses on the Earth's mantle and core from the point of view of current theories and studies from the scientific literature. In this part, students will watch lectures, read selected papers, and take part in group discussions sessions. Part 2 focuses on the lithosphere from the point of view of global geophysical data and simple physical models that can be used to describe them. In this part, students will watch lectures, read textbook chapters, and work with geophysical datasets and models in computer-based practicals.

Asynchronous:

1. Recorded lectures: Weekly assigned videos to watch before practicals and discussion sessions.
2. Reading assignments: Weekly reading of scientific papers and short book chapters.

Synchronous:

1. Group discussion sessions based on reading assignments.
2. Computer-based practicals to work with datasets and models.