Introduction to earth science and sustainability: Earth's strucrure and interanl processes

Objective

This course provides a foundational introduction to key areas of geology, with a focus on the Earth's structure, composition, and the internal processes that shape our planet. It is specifically designed for teachers and emphasizes geoscience didactics, making it relevant for teaching both geoscience and geography.

Contents

The course is delivered online and includes pre-recorded lecture videos, reflection-based assignments, and student-led exercises. It offers a basic introduction to the Earth's internal structure, classification of rocks and minerals, volcanic and magmatic activity, earthquakes, metamorphism, crustal deformation, and plate tectonics.

Further topics include weathering, erosion, transport and deposition of sediments, formation of sedimentary rocks, and natural resources such as energy, minerals, and ores — all discussed within a sustainability framework.

The course includes three digital evening seminars featuring reflection-based exercises and group discussions.

Additionally, there will be an annual in-person gathering that rotates between different cities in Norway (shared with courses GEOV602 and GEOV603). This gathering is not mandatory, and is not part of the regular course material.

Knowledge

The students can:

• Describe the geological history of the Earth in broad terms
• Define and explain key geological concepts and terminology
• Explain how different types of rocks and minerals are formed
• Describe how various geological processes (such as plate tectonics and tectonic activity) operate and interact on Earth
• Discuss cause-and-effect relationships in geological processes

Skills

The student can:

• Use basic geological terminology and forms of expression
• Describe geological processes such as continental drift, rock formation, and tectonic activity
• Conduct literature searches, demonstrate source criticism, and apply correct referencing
• Interpret and explain simple graphs and figures containing geological information

General competence

The students can:

• Use precise geological language to describe geological processes and events
• Demonstrate the ability to work independently
• Demonstrate the ability to work collaboratively in groups
• Communicate the societal relevance of the subject
• Apply geoscience didactic methods to teach geoscience