ATM3261 - Earth system interactions: from biogeochemical cycles to global change

Leader: Dr Jason Beringer

Offered

Clayton Second semester 2008 (Day)

Synopsis

This interdisciplinary unit will deal with the interactions and feedbacks amongst the Earth's different subsystems - the atmosphere, ocean, mantle and crust, cryosphere, and biological systems and how these have changed on a global scale. The unit will examine the dynamics of the earth by identifying the major driving processes and responses of the biosphere to energy, water and biogeochemical cycles in the earth system. The characteristic spatial and temporal scales over which they occur will also be examined. Students will be engaged in learning through lecture material, seminar series, debates and research based activities.

Objectives

The unit aims to provide specific knowledge and understanding of climate, biology and geology and their role in current global process and the feedbacks and interactions that exist between them. This will engage students by providing them with relevant information that can be applied to global environmental problems. The unit aims to provide contemporary and innovative ideas and research in the context of global change. The unit aims to develop synthetic capabilities in students through enquiry and integrative research as well as engaging teaching methods. The unit also aims to promote oral and other communications skills. Finally, students should develop teamwork skills through group based research projects.

Assessment

Examinations (2 hours): 40%
Oral seminar or debate presentation: 25%
Research study report (2500 words): 35%

Contact hours

three 1-hour lectures, three hours of seminars and two hours research based activities per fortnight

Prerequisites

One or more of GES2190, GES2130, GES2210, GES2170, ATM2211, ATM2022, ESC2042, ESC2022, BIO2051, BIO2082, BOT2032 or ZOO2031.

Prohibitions

GES3890, GES4890