Module Details

The information contained in this module specification was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change, either during the session because of unforeseen circumstances, or following review of the module at the end of the session. Queries about the module should be directed to the member of staff with responsibility for the module.
Title Applied Geology and Geohazards of the Canary Islands
Code ENVS575
Coordinator Dr KJ Chamberlain
Earth, Ocean and Ecological Sciences
K.J.Chamberlain@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2023-24 Level 7 FHEQ Second Semester 15

Aims

To examine and evaluate the state-of-the-art aspects of advanced modern geology and geohazards, particularly where there has been recent innovation, controversy or popular concern;

To integrate as far as possible, or to contrast, theoretical, numerical and experimental modelling with field observations and phenomenological studies;

To foster critical appraisal of scientific presentations (e.g. research paper(s), report(s), media);

To foster scientific teamwork, co-operation and development of consensus.


Learning Outcomes

(LO1) Explain and discuss recent models of certain key geological and geohazard processes critical to the current state of knowledge

(LO2) Collect and apply primary field evidence to evaluate scientific controversies

(LO3) Defend a research-level scientific case through a presentation

(LO4) Critically review published literature

(LO5) Prepare a technical report to professional standards

(S1) Improving own learning/performance - Personal action planning

(S2) Communication (oral, written and visual) - Following instructions/protocols/procedures

(S3) Critical thinking and problem solving - Problem identification

(S4) Ethical judgement

(S5) Organisational skills

(S6) Working with others through research-level scientific teamwork


Syllabus

 

The majority of teaching takes place during a field class to Tenerife.

Example of module themes include:

Geodynamics of the Canary Islands;

Construction and collapse of an island volcano;

Magmatic processes and relation to plate-tectonics and georesources;

Critical analysis of media handling of the threat from 'megatsunamis';

Hazards assessment and risk mitigation; preparedness, scientific problems, communication problems and political problems;

Processes of explosive volcanism; eruption plumes and pyroclast dispersal;

Pyroclastic density currents and the sedimentation of ignimbrites;

Hydrovolcanism;

Modern and ancient caldera volcanoes;

Volcanism and climate;

Geoheritage;

Volcano monitoring;

Scientific controversies and the role of the media;

Hot topics in geology and geohazards.


Teaching and Learning Strategies

Lectures provide logistical information and field information and provide an opportunity for Q&A discussions related to assessments.

Group Seminars facilitate discussion of scientific, societal, economic and political aspects.

An 8-day field class in Tenerife develops field skills and application of theory.

A Poster session allows presentation and discussion of hazard report findings as an EGU PICO-style presentation.


Teaching Schedule

  Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
Study Hours 2

6

    64

  72
Timetable (if known)              
Private Study 78
TOTAL HOURS 150

Assessment

EXAM Duration Timing
(Semester)
% of
final
mark
Resit/resubmission
opportunity
Penalty for late
submission
Notes
             
CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
(Semester)
% of
final
mark
Resit/resubmission
opportunity
Penalty for late
submission
Notes
Fieldwork assessment - detailed log and reconstruction of emplacement/depositional processes, presented during the field class    60       
Hazard report + map focused on volcano selected by student.    40       

Recommended Texts

Reading lists are managed at readinglists.liverpool.ac.uk. Click here to access the reading lists for this module.