Semester Two 2012 undergraduate courses

Key environmental debates are explored to identify the challenges to effective environmental management. Case studies highlight the complexity of environmental problems and the difficult task of integrating science, knowledge and values in their resolution.

This course is taught in: Second Semester, City Campus (S2 C)

Coordinator: TBA
Format: three 1 hour lectures and one 1 hour tutorial per week
Points: 15
Assessment: 40% coursework (test 20%, assignments 20%), 60% final examination
Timetable S2 C: Check SSO

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This course examines the relationships among personal geographies and global geographies of uneven development, economic and socio-cultural change. Using a variety of examples from New Zealand and the world we illustrate the connections between local places and global issues.

This course is taught in: Second Semester, City Campus (S2 C)

Coordinator: Mel Wall
Format: three 1 hour lectures and one 2-hour lab fortnightly
Points: 15
Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% final examination
Timetable S2 C: Check SSO

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The principles of processes that occur on Earth’s surface, and the history of Earth and life. Topics include evolution, extinctions, geologic mapping, sediment transport and deposition, landscape evolution and ice ages.

This course is taught in: Second Semester, City Campus (S2 C)

Coordinator: Lorna Strachan
Format: three 1 hour lectures and one 2-hour laboratory per week, plus one field trip
Points: 15
Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% final examination
Restriction: Geology 101, 102
Timetable S2 C: Check SSO

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Effective communication is required for specialists in all fields to engage meaningfully with society. In this course students gain an understanding of the important role communication plays in a knowledge society. Through case studies and practical experience students learn about the
responsibilities and skills required to communicate with a variety of audiences. They learn how to effectively manage and present data and practice oral, written, visual and electronic communication.

Please note: This course is offered as a general education course and in the BSc schedule. Science students please note - you are allowed to enrol in this course as one of your general education options. However please confirm your eligibility on The University of Auckland’s General Education webpage.

This course is taught in: First Semester, City Campus (S1 C); Second Semester, City Campus (S2 C)

Coordinator: Marie McEntee
Format S1: three 1 hour lectures per week
Format S2: three 1 hour lectures per week
Points: 15
Assessment: 60% coursework, 40% final examination
Timetable S1 C: Check SSO
Timetable S2 C: Check SSO

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Selected topics in climatology, hydrology, fluvial and coastal geomorphology, and environmental change. The course focuses on near-surface processes in the physical environment, explored using a range of conceptual approaches and research methods.

This course is taught in: Second Semester, City Campus (S2 C)

Coordinator: Mark Dickson
Format: three 1 hour lectures and one 1 hour laboratory per week, plus two compulsory day field trips will be held on a Friday and Saturday during the semester
Points: 15
Assessment: 40% coursework (test 10%, assignment 10%, labs 20%), 60% final examination
Preparation: no formal prerequisites but a knowledge equivalent to GEOG 101 is assumed; note this will become a formal prerequisite in 2012
Timetable S2 C: Check SSO

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This course provides a foundation for understanding the complex mix of human and biophysical factors that must be considered by those involved in environmental management. Key concepts are introduced, and a variety of contemporary case studies explored to illustrate how environmental management decisions are made in practice. This course is offered in summer school (SS C) and second semester (S2 C), and is a requirement for the Environmental Science specialisation.

This course is taught in: Summer School, City Campus (SS C); Second Semester, City Campus (S2 C)

Coordinator SS: TBA
Coordinator S2: Vicky Walters
Format SS: three 2 hour lectures per week
Format S2: three 1 hour lectures per week, plus five 1 hour labs throughout the semester
Points: 15
Assessment: 40% coursework (two essays worth 20% each), 60% final examination
Timetable SS C: Check SSO
Timetable S2 C: Check SSO

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Note: Please consult the coordinator regarding any timetable issues. Labs will not run in every week of semester

An introduction to the conceptual base of Geographic Information Science, the practical use of geo-spatial data and various societal issues related to the use of Remote Sensing and Geographic Information Systems. The course exercises cover a range of application of GIS for analysis and display of spatial data, focusing on non-programmable solutions.

This course is taught in: Second Semester, City Campus (S2 C)

Coordinator: TBA
Format: three 1 hour lectures and one 2 hour laboratory per week
Points: 15
Assessment: 40% coursework (labs 40%), 60% final examination
Restriction: GEOG 208, GEOG 318
Preparation: no prerequisites
Timetable S2 C: Check SSO

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This course explores the development of Earth from its molten beginnings to the dynamic planet that we live on today. The course is taught in two sections, first teaching students the principles and methods used in unravelling the history of the Earth, then using these tools to examine in detail the long and complex physical and organic 4.5 billion year history of our planet. Several key geologic techniques are developed throughout the course, each considered essential for anyone considering a career in geology. These include sedimentology, sequence stratigraphy, biostratigraphy, paleontology and paleoecology. The course includes a one day field trip to a local area of geologic significance.

This course is taught in: Second Semester, City Campus (S2 C).

Coordinator: Dr Barry O'Connor
Format: three lectures and one 3 hour laboratory per week; plus a one day field trip
Points: 15
Assessment: 50% coursework (labs and assignments), 50% examination and essay
Preparation: 15 points from GEOLOGY 101 or GEOLOGY 104
Timetable S2 C: Check SSO

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This course contains structural geology and geophysics. It covers methods of structural geology, analysing sequences of deformation, stress, strain, folds, faults and fractures, structure of metamorphic rocks. The geophysics portion covers an introduction to methods of applied geophysics for geological exploration, geophysics of plate boundaries and lithosphere including earthquake seismology, heat flow and deep seismic profiling.

This course is taught in: Second Semester, City Campus (S2 C).

Coordinator: Julie Rowland
Format: three lectures and 3 hours of laboratories per week
Points: 15
Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% final examination
Preparation: GEOLOGY 101 or GEOLOGY 104
Timetable S2 C: Check SSO

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An introduction to how models are used in the study and management of environmental impacts in a range of environmental contexts and systems (e.g. ecological, fluvial, atmospheric, coastal, etc.). Developing skills in designing, communicating and critically assessing models of the environment.

This course is taught in: Second Semester, City Campus (S2 C)

Coordinator: Dr George Perry
Format: three 1 hour lectures and one 2 hour tutorial per week
Points: 15
Assessment: 50% coursework (four computer lab exercises worth 12.5% each), 50% final examination
Preparation: no formal prerequisites but an understanding of data analysis equivalent to GEOG 250 or BIOSCI 209 is assumed; note this will become a formal prerequisite in 2012
Timetable S2 C: Check SSO

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**Please check the course homepage before the start of semester as lab times may change depending on room availabilty and demand.

The principles of restoration ecology. Ecosystem and landscape management in the context of restoration ecology and the integration of ecosystem services. Case studies of mainland and island restoration.

This course is taught in: First Semester, City Campus (S2 C)

Coordinator: Dr Neil Mitchell
Format: one 2 hour and one 1 hour lectures per week, plus two 1 day field trips: Thursday in week 2 and Thursday in week 4 (subject to weather; please check the web site and course outline for details and confirmation
Points: 15
Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% final examination
Preparation: no formal prerequisites but an understanding equivalent to either GEOG 101, ENVSCI 101 or BIOSCI104 is assumed, plus an understanding of ecological principles and New Zealand ecology; note this will become a formal prerequisite in 2012
Restriction: BIOSCI 393
Core paper: This course is a core paper for the 'Conservation and Biosecurity' option of the BSc Ecology specialisation.
Timetable S2 C: Check SSO

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A survey of major themes in population, health and social geography. An examination of the dynamics of population complements analyses of health and health care, the education sector, the welfare state, and the changing character of urban places.

This course is taught in: Second Semester, City Campus (S2 C).

Coordinator: Robin Kearns
Format: three 1 hour lectures per week and occasional tutorials throughout the semester
Points: 15
Assessment: 40% coursework (one essay 25%, three tutorial exercises 5% each), 60% final examination
Preparation: No formal prerequisites but a knowledge equivalent to GEOG 202 or equivalent is assumed
Timetable S2 C: Check SSO

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This course examines development processes and issues in the countries of the Pacific Islands. Themes will include development theory, colonialism, population, economic systems, migration, gender, ethnicity and identity, geopolitics and environment, international linkages and development strategies.

This course is taught in: Second Semester, City Campus (S2 C).

Coordinator: Ward Friesen
Format: Two 1 hour lectures and one tutorial per week
Points: 15
Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% final examination
Preparation: No formal prerequisites but a knowledge equivalent to GEOG 202 or equivalent is assumed
Timetable S2 C: Check SSO

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A lecture, practical and field course, the focus of which is a residential field section during the mid-semester study break. The course provides you with experience in designing and executing a substantial research project. It is designed to prepare you for the increasing number of jobs that require these research skills as well as an introduction to research for those of you proceeding to higher degrees. The course is suitable for students of Geography and other social science subjects. Lectures introduce the principles of research design, sources of social, economic and environmental information, questionnaire design, interviewing techniques, ethical considerations in research, the analysis of data using both quantitative and qualitative techniques, data presentation, and report preparation and writing. This is an intensive course that mixes lectures with practical sessions and small group discussion. The emphasis is on research skills and assisting you in your independent research project. It is imperative that students can attend all scheduled classes and the field camp. Any concerns about this and timetable clashes should be discussed with the course coordinator.

This course is taught in: Second Semester, City Campus (S2 C).

Coordinator: David Hayward
Format: three hours of lectures per week and occasional tutorials, plus a compulsory six day residential field camp during the first week of the mid-semester break of Semester Two; accommodation and transport will be provided, although there will be a fee to cover food costs
Points: 15
Assessment: 100% coursework (proposal 20%, field assignment 10%, seminar presentation 5%, research report 60%, public summary 5%)
Suitability: suitable for those students majoring in geography whose programmes focus upon human geography, environmental management or data analysis
Research Methods: Social science research methods
Preparation: no formal prerequisites but a knowledge equivalent to GEOG 250 and either GEOG 202 or GEOG 205 is strongly recommended; plus at least one of GEOG 302, GEOG 305, GEOG 312, GEOG 320 or GEOG 322; please note that these recommendations will become formal prerequisites for this course from 2012.
Timetable S2 C: Check SSO

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Further develops key concepts of geographic information science as applied to human activity including retailing, population and health, crime analysis, tourism, consumer behaviour, and planning. Covers techniques for describing human artefacts and activities, ways of analyzing and visualizing activity in space, spatial analysis of census data, consumption, individual accessibility and activities in time, monitoring devices including remote imagery, locational technology, and privacy.

This course is taught in: Second Semester, City Campus (S2 C)

Coordinator: David O'Sullivan
Format: two 1 hour lectures and one 2 hour laboratory per week
Points: 15
Assessment: 100% coursework
Prerequisite: GEOG 210 or equivalent
Restriction: GEOG 208
Timetable S2 C: Check SSO

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This course builds on materials in GEOG 317 and/or GEOG 318 by providing an opportunity for students to pursue a topic of choice through an individual project. Project topics are developed by students in conjunction with the instructors, and input and ideas from other courses is encouraged.

This course is taught in: Second Semester, City Campus (S2 C).

Coordinator: Pip Forer
Format: one 2 hour lecture and two 2 hour laboratories per week
Points: 15
Assessment: 60% coursework, 40% examination
Preparation: no formal prerequisites but a knowledge equivalent to GEOG 318 or equivalent is assumed; please consult course coordinator
Timetable S2 C: Check SSO

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An overview of the human dimension of disasters which covers crucial concepts and theories, vulnerability and the causes of disasters, disaster risk reduction and management, post-disaster recovery and transversal issues such as culture and gender. The discussions draw on examples and case studies from throughout the world with a particular focus on the most vulnerable and marginalized areas and communities.

This course is taught in: Second semester, City Campus (S2 C)

Coordinator: JC Gaillard
Format: TBA
Assessment: 40% coursework and 60% final examination
Preparation: no formal prerequisites

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This course gives students direct involvement with the research process, as practised in physical geography. Emphasis is given to research design, methods and techniques from the component fields of physical geography. The focus of the course is a compulsory residential field trip. On this field trip students will apply selected research methods and techniques to a research project. Lectures and laboratories before the field trip will be used to guide students through the research design process, and after the field trip to assist with data analysis, interpretation and reporting.

This course is taught in: Second Semester, City Campus (S2 C).

Coordinator: TBA
Format: three 1 hour lectures and one 1 hour laboratory per week; plus a five day residential field trip during the mid-semester break
Points: 15
Assessment: 100% coursework (details of the coursework will be advised at the start of the course)
Suitability: Suitable for students wishing to specialise in physical geography, environmental or data analysis
Methods: Selected physical geography field and laboratory techniques for data collection and analysis
Preparation: no formal prerequisites but a knowledge equivalent to GEOG 250 and GEOG 201 or equivalent; students should also enrol in any of the following courses GEOG 331, GEOG 332, GEOG 334 or GEOG 351 and should be currently studying or have completed Stage III physical geography courses; please note that these recommendations will become formal prerequisites for this course from 2012
Timetable S2 C: Check SSO

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An exploration of the nature of atmospheric processes that affect our climatic environment, at a range of temporal and spatial scales, with a focus on applications and contemporary issues. The course is divided into sections in which lectures are provided by staff with research expertise and interest in the topics covered. Themes covered in the course include selected topics in applied climatology, anthropogenic global climate change, urban climates, boundary layer processes, synoptic climatology in environmental analysis, hydroclimatology.

This course is taught in: Second Semester, City Campus (S2 C)

Coordinator: Chris de Freitas
Format: one 2-hour lecture and one 1 hour lecture, plus one 2-hour laboratory per week
Points: 15
Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% final examination
Prerequisite: GEOG 201 or equivalent
Timetable S2 C: Check SSO

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An exploration of the nature and causes of change in selected aspects of the physical environment. The temporal context ranges from millennia to inter- annual variability. A core element of the course is examination of methods used to reconstruct and date the past. Course content draws on examples from some or all of: climatology, biogeography, and geomorphology. Emphasis is on natural environmental change of the past, but human impacts and projection of future change may also feature.

This course is taught in: Second Semester, City Campus (S2 C)

Coordinator: Anthony Fowler
Format: three 1 hour lectures and one 2 hour laboratory per week
Points: 15
Assessment: 40% coursework, 60% final examination
Preparation: no formal prerequisite but at least 60 points completed at Stage II, and GEOG 201 or equivalent is assumed; please note that these recommendations will become formal prerequisites for this course from 2012
Restriction: those students who completed GEOG 332 in 2005 or 2006 should not enrol in GEOG 334
Timetable S2 C: Check SSO

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This course provides an integrated account of the igneous and metamorphic processes that take place in the earth's upper mantle and crust. It focuses on the processes that are active in magmatic systems, the rocks that result from intrusive igneous activity, the metamorphic processes and rocks of the crust, and on the volcanic processes that occur at the earth’s surface.

This course is taught in: Second Semester, City Campus (S2 C).

Coordinator: Ian Smith
Format: two 1 hour lectures and 3 hours of laboratories per week
Points: 15
Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% final examination
Prerequisite: GEOLOGY 203
Timetable S2 C: Check SSO

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This course introduces the theory of plate tectonics and its application to understanding earth structure, metamorphism and basin development through time. Students will use seminal papers and original data to bring together the different fields of study leading to the development of plate tectonics. Additionally, the principal tectonic settings will be examined with respect to styles of deformation, basin development and pressure and temperature regimes.

This course is taught in: Second Semester, City Campus (S2 C).

Coordinator: Julie Rowland
Format: two 1 hour lectures and 2 hours of laboratories per week
Points: 15
Assessment: 50% coursework, 50% final examination
Prerequisite: GEOLOGY 204
Timetable S2 C: Check SSO

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Introduction to fundamentals in soil and rock mechanics and their application to engineering projects. Discussion of natural hazards and their implications on infrastructure design. Practical exercises in field mapping, core logging, aerial photograph interpretation, and basic laboratory tests.

This course is taught in: Second Semester, City Campus (S2 C).

Coordinator: Marc-Andre Brideau
Format: three 1 hour lectures and 2 hours of laboratories per week; plus one-day field classes
Points: 15
Assessment: 50% coursework (based on field and laboratory exercises), 50% final examination
Prerequisite: Either GEOLOGY 201 or CIVIL 220
Timetable S2 C: Check SSO

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This course comprises two parts; in solid earth geophysics aspects of the gravitational field, the rotation and figure of the earth, seismology and the internal structure of the earth, the earth's internal heat, the geomagnetic field, paleomagnetism and geodynamics are covered. In the applied geophysics part, the theory and principles of the key geophysical methods are covered. Practical work includes laboratory experiments, computer-based data processing and interpretation, and the critical assessment of geophysical data. Geology students are strongly advised to take GEOLOGY 361 in addition to this course. Courses GEOLOGY 361 and GEOPHYS 330 together provide a solid grounding in applied geophysics for both geology and physics students and are essential for students intending to further their studies in applied geophysics.

Note: this is a joint Geology - Physics course.

This course is taught in: Second Semester, City Campus (S2 C).

Coordinator: Barry Brennan
Format: two 1 hour lectures and 3 hours of laboratories per week
Points: 15
Assessment: 10% coursework, 40% practical, 50% final examination
Prerequisite: no formal prerequisite, but it will be assumed that students have either passed PHYSICS 213 and PHYSICS 231, plus completed 15 points in Geology; or have completed GEOLOGY 204 and either MATHS 150 or PHYSICS 111, plus another 15 points in Physics
Timetable: Check SSO

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Designed specifically for Science and Engineering students this course allows students to develop key skills relevant to the working environment including project management, communication and time management. Students will be asked to apply the specialist knowledge that they have gained throughout their degree program and communicate it to a wide range of groups external to the University. Students will be expected to undertake group work and manage their own project during this course.

This course is taught in: Second Semester, City Campus (S2 C)

Coordinator: Dr Belinda Bray
Format: four hours per week
Points: 15
Assessment: 100% in-course assessment
Prerequisites: 180 points in any combination of papers, preferably in the Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Engineering schedules
Timetable S2 C: Check SSO

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