Introduction to Geoscience and sustainability: Practical Geoscience

Objective

This course provides an introduction to the practical aspects of geoscience, and is built on the theoretical foundation taught in GEOV601 and GEOV602. The course focuses on geoscientific fieldwork, observation and interpretation of geological structures and processes, geoscientific methods and tools, as well as the role of geoscience in society and the workplace. In addition, the module places special emphasis on didactic themes and learning in geoscience and geography.

Content

The course consists of pre-recorded instructional videos and practical exercises delivered digitally, along with a digital field course that allows students to complete tasks using both digital datasets and real-world outdoor environments. Digital field resources (videos and field-based digital assignments) will be available in many regions across Norway.

Through exercises and fieldwork, students will identify and classify common soil types, minerals, and rocks, interpret topographic and geological maps, and gather information about geological history through field observations (both digital and in their local surroundings).

The course includes three online evening sessions with exercises and group discussions, as well as one in-person gathering that rotates annually between different cities in Norway (shared with courses GEOV601 and GEOV602). If needed, hybrid participation will be facilitated. The course also emphasizes didactics and the relevance of geoscience in contemporary and future contexts.

Upon completion of the course, the student will have achieved the following learning outcomes:

Knowledge

The student will be able to:

• Collect, describe, interpret, and explain geological observations
• Explain geological processes based on exercises and demonstrations
• Describe the most common geoscientific methods and tools
• Classify, describe, and discuss the formation of common sediments and rocks
• Explain geological history based on geological information
• Describe the role of geoscience in the workplace and society

Skills

The student will be able to:

• Plan basic fieldwork and gather necessary information for its execution
• Develop field-based teaching exercises for school students
• Interpret topographic and geological maps and construct geological profiles based on them
• Conduct observations and collect geological data in the field in accordance with GEO/UiB's health and safety guidelines
• Discuss geological observations and interpretations from fieldwork and exercises
• Measure the orientation of geological planes using a compass
• Summarize acquired field knowledge in report format

General competence 

The student will be able to:

• Use precise geological terminology to describe geological processes and events
• Collect, interpret, evaluate, and present information from literature and fieldwork
• Demonstrate the ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Communicate the societal relevance of geoscience
• Relate the subject matter to the UN Sustainable Development Goals
• Apply geoscience didactic methods to teach geoscience