London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)

Modules

Unit information 2008–09
154 Geomorphological applications

This unit provides an overview of the different types of applied geomorphology and their employment in practical contexts.employment in practical contexts.

Prerequisite
If taken as part of a BSc degree, units which must be passed before this unit may be attempted:

Aims and objectives

To achieve the unit aims, we will follow five principal themes:

  • Techniques for geomorphic assessments
  • Geomorphology and natural hazards
  • Geomorphology: conservation and management
  • Geomorphic studies in planning
  • Integrated approaches: applied geomorphology and potential future climate change.

Essential reading

The main text for the uint is:
Fookes, P.G., E.M. Lee and J.S. Griffiths Engineering Geomorphology. Theory and Practice. (Caithness:Whittles Publishing, 2003) [ISBN
9781904445388].

However students will be expected to read more widely including the following two textbooks and a number of journal articles from the Online Library.

Downs, P. and K.J. Gregory River Channel Management: Towards Sustainable Catchment
Hydrosystems. (London: Arnold, 2001) [ISBN 9780340759691].
Goudie, A., M.G. Anderson, T. Burt, J. Lewin, K.
Richards, B. Whalley and P. Worsley (eds)
Geomorphological Techniques. (London:Routledge, 1994) second edition [ISBN 9780415119399].

Assessment

This unit is assessed by a three hour unseen written examination.

Students should consult the Programme Regulations for degrees and diplomas in Economics, Management, Finance and the Social Sciences that are reviewed annually. The Prerequisites, Exclusions, and Syllabus are subject to confirmation in the  Regulations. Notice is also given in the Regulations of any units which are being phased out and students are advised to check unit availability.

This is a description of the material to be examined, as published in the Regulations. On registration, students will receive a detailed subject guide which provides a framework for covering the topics in the syllabus and directions to the essential reading.

First, the specific techniques required for field-, map- or computer-based assessments of geomorphic problems will be assessed.
Secondly, the role of geomorphology in understanding natural hazards will provide a focus for approaches that could be considered as reactive.
Thirdly, more proactive approaches within conservation and management will be addressed.
Fourthly, the use of geomorphic studies in planning will continue the proactive theme.
Fifthly, illustrations of how these different approaches may be integrated will be given by evaluating the role of applied geomorphology in the context of  understanding the effects of potential future climate change.