Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya · BarcelonaTech

Geology and Coastal Geomorphology (250558) – Course 2025/26 PDF

Syllabus

Learning Objectives

In this course, the different geomorphological environments of the littoral zone are described, starting from the tectonic settings that broadly determines its characteristics at a geological scale, and the processes and factors that determine its recent morphological evolution, centered on erosion and accretion. The objective is to understand the morphological behaviour of coastal environments at different scales of time and space. 1.- Define the main elements of the coast, and classify the different littoral environments according to geological, hydrodynamic or geomorphological criteria. 2.- Show the existing differences between rocky, sedimentary coasts, intertidal flats, estuaries and coastal lagoons and Deltas. General relation the coastal typologies and the general tectonic settings. 3.- Understand the processes related to relative changes in sea level in a geological climate change context.

Competencies

Especific

To know and apply the lexicon and concepts of the Marine Sciences and Technologies and other related fields.

Establish a good practice in the integration of common numerical, laboratory and field techniques in the analysis of any problem related to the marine environment.

Apply spatial and cartographic representation techniques for different environments and scales.

Generic

Develop a professional activity in the field of Marine Sciences and Technologies.

Address in a comprehensive manner the analysis and preservation of the marine environment with sustainability criteria.

Total hours of student work

Hours Percentage
Supervised Learning Large group 37.5h 62.50 %
Medium group 18h 30.00 %
Laboratory classes 4.5h 7.50 %
Self Study 90h

Teaching Methodology

The course consists of 4 hours a week of face-to-face classes in the classroom. The methodology is based on: * Theoretical lectures where the fundamental concepts are explained. * Laboratory classes aimed at using techniques and tools for use in the professional field. * Classes of problems intended to apply the knowledge acquired in the theoretical classes. * Field visits to different locations to make on-site observations of coastal geomorphology concepts. Although most of the sessions will be given in the language indicated, sessions supported by other occasional guest experts may be held in other languages.

Grading Rules

The evaluation calendar and grading rules will be approved before the start of the course.

The regular assessment of the course consists of: (a) submission of various practical assignments and projects (30%); (b) submission of a field visit report (10%); and (c) two theoretical-practical exams (60%). All activities are mandatory. If any of them are not completed, they will be assigned a score of zero. Students who fail the regular assessment but have submitted the practical assignments and the report, and have taken the theoretical exam, have the option to take a reassessment test. The maximum grade for the reassessment exam is five.

Test Rules

If any of the laboratory activities or continuous assessmen.ts are not completed within the scheduled period, they will be considered as a score of zero

Office Hours

Consultation hours to be agreed with the teachers of the topics

Bibliography

Basic

Complementary