Geophysics Abroad 1

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Understand the mechanics and consequences of plate tectonic processes.
• Use seismograms to study earthquakes and earth structure.
• Understand the role of earthquake seismology in the study of the earth.

Currently the module is taught at Penn State University and comprises their courses GEOSC 488 "Introduction to Seismology" and GEOSC 489 "Dynamics of the Earth".

Students will learn about how different types of seismic waves propagate through the Earth, how earthquake seismic travel times, amplitudes and waveforms can be used to determine earth structure, and how earthquake seismograms can be used to study the earthquakes that generate them. They will also learn about the constitution and dynamics of the solid Earth and the large-scale processes that determine its surface structure.

Teaching and learning methods

Teaching and learning methods

This module aims to provide students with an opportunity to study in a different cultural environment and to receive instruction from research leaders in a top North America University. Penn State has an excellent reputation for teaching in Earth Sciences and these methods include:

• Formal lectures by research leaders in Earth, ocean and planetary science.
• Practical and Laboratory classes using state of the art facilities.
• Examples classes in small groups with expert supervision.
• Computer-based classes using state of the art software.

A wide range of support can be provided for those students who have further or specific learning and teaching needs.

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.