The Ground Beneath Our Feet: The Geological History of the last 2 Million Years

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Describe the key climate drivers over the past 2Myr and how resulting geological processes have varied
• Outline significance of these features for sustainable development, both in terrestrial and shallow shelf environments
• Identify a range of geological features from surficial and subsurface datasets
• Interpret geological features in the context of the climate-driven processes
• Communicate effectively by reporting your interpretations for appropriate audiences

The interaction between humans and the geological environment is most directly affected by processes active through the last 2 Myr (the Quaternary period). On continental shelves around the world this is most directly evident from multiple periods of glaciation and the attendant changes in global, regional and local sea-level rise. These environmental variations mean that the near surface deposits, both onshore and offshore, represent a complex interaction between both terrestrial and marine processes. This module will explore the drivers, the resulting geological environments, and the implications for engineering projects. Although focused on mid- to high-latitude locations, where there are direct interactions with glaciation, Case Studies will also be provided from across the planet.

This module will consist of lectures supported by practical and computer-based exercises using a range of different techniques and datasets to investigate Quaternary processes and their implications for the building and operation of a wide range infrastructure on the continental shelf.

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.