This course introduces topics in physical geography related to the interaction between water, climate, landscape and society. It aims to provide the student with a better understanding of water as a geomorphic agent, and how hydrological systems and catchments are influenced by human activity and climate change on different spatial and temporal scales. The course has a focus on the dynamic processes in nature related to runoff, and the objective is to increase the ability of participants to identify and reflect on the interaction between nature and society in hydrological processes.

The course also aims to disseminate an understanding of how water flows above and below the ground, and how human activity can influence the flow conditions. Students will gain experience with collecting, analysing and presenting hydrological data. Furthermore, the course will discuss triggering mechanisms of hydro-meteorological geohazards, and the impact on society by fluvial- and slope-related processes following predicted man-made climate changes with increased precipitation, higher sea level and extreme weather events. We will also discuss how planning and management can be used by the society to adapt to water-related problems. The course will have a focus on a Norwegian context.

On completion of the course, the student should have the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence:

Knowledge

The student

• can explain important concepts, theories and processes in hydrogeology
• can outline and discuss how climate change and human activity influence on drainage above and below ground
• can explain the influence of climate change on geohazard risks and discuss the impact on society
• is familiar with research on geohazards and extreme weather events
• can update his/her knowledge about ground and surface water hydrology, and climate related geohazards

Skills

The student

• can assess how human activity, land use and climate change may influence catchment hydrology
• can apply knowledge to define a water related academic problem and find literature to elaborate on that topic
• has acquired skills in discharge gauging
• can use a precise professional language to describe and discuss processes and problems in hydrogeology, hydrology and geohazards

General knowledge

The student

• can communicate and write an academic text on current issues in hydrogeology, hydrology and geohazards, and relate it to scientific literature
• can exchange opinions with others having a background in the field, and provide constructive comments to their work
• can write a field report alone with adequate analysis and illustrations

GEO110/GEO115, GEO111 and GEO112/ GEO113 or equivalent knowledge

Earth Science students: GEOV101, GEOV102 and GEOV110

Students with equivalent background to the prior knowledge requirement can contact the Department (studieveileder@geog.uib.no)

1-2 lectures/seminars á 2 hours pr. week

Total: 12-18 lectures/seminars.

2-4 days excursion/field course