GEOG40730: SEA-LEVEL CHANGE HAZARDS

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• This is a science-based module aimed at students wishing to develop postgraduate level knowledge about the discipline of sea-level science, including methods of reconstruction, large scale processes which cause sea-level change and the latest research into forecasting future sea-level changes.

• Global models of past sea-level change
• Methods of sea-level measurement
• Future sea-level rise scenarios and predictions
• Effects of abrupt events such as tsunamis and earthquakes
• Coastal responses to future sea-level rise

Subject-specific Knowledge:

• Understanding of the mechanisms causing sea-level change; past, present and future
• Critical evaluation of proxy and direct methods of measuring sea-level change
• Critical appraisal of predictions of future sea-level change
• Understanding of how coastlines respond to sea-level change
• Understanding of different types of abrupt sea-level changes, mechanisms which cause them and how we may anticipate future events.

Subject-specific Skills:

• Geomorphological mapping
• Surveying
• Field sediment analysis
• Use of tidal surveying equipment
• Laboratory sediment analysis techniques
• Examination of quantitative data sources including large datasets
• Use of quantitative and conceptual models of sea-level change

Key Skills:

• Critical evaluation of published data
• Technical skills in the field, laboratory and in effective use of IT
• Development of research skills formulating research objectives, logistical planning and measuring outcomes against these objectives

• The first module aim is concerned with understanding sea-level changes in the geological past. We will use a science-based approach to examine global, regional and local changes in sea level from the last glacial maximum to the present. This will follow a hands-on approach with methods and techniques of sea-level reconstruction learnt through a 3-5 day residential field class and associated workshop, followed by four practical classes involving laboratory work (2) and analysing quantitative datasets (2). In addition there will be 5 lectures and a summative poster in this section. The second module aim focuses on the instrumental era (~ last 100 years) in recording sea-level changes and future predictions of sea-level change. Again this take a hands on approach with 4 lectures followed by 2 practicals on handling and analysing instrumental data, field classes examining evidence for current and future coastal change and a project resulting in an individual summative poster and oral defence of the poster examining the potential impacts of future sea-level change on local coastlines. The project will have an associated workshop (surgery).

Feedback on field notebook developed during the field class and subsequent practicals in term 1. NB: formative work is a compulsory part of this module.

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