Subject description for 2024/25
Physical Geography
GEO1112
Subject description for 2024/25

Physical Geography

GEO1112
Physical geography is the study of the Earth’s natural environment, landforms and the processes that create these. Key areas are the links between the different factors that together shape the landscape and the natural environment, and the dynamic processes that influence bedrock, sediments, weather, climate, and vegetation.
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In the course, we pursue understanding of the forces and processes that shape Earth’s internal structures as well as its landforms, and develop and constantly make weather, climate, vegetation, and the environment-at-large in which we live change. The course gives students the opportunity to investigate the processes that have shaped the local landscape and natural environment and compile a description of their own locations of residence from a physical geography perspective.
Admission is based on Higher Education Entrance Qualification or prior learning and work experience in accordance with applicable regulations.

After completing the course, the student will have achieved the following learning outcomes:

Knowledge:

  • has knowledge about processes in the oceans and the atmosphere that shapes and changes the weather and the climate
  • has knowledge about processes regarding the formation and characteristics of various types of deposits
  • has an overview of global and national vegetation zones and knowledge about important national vegetation types
  • understand connections between geology, climate, and vegetation.

Skills:

  • can apply key terminology and explain general connections between geology, landforms, weather, climate, and vegetation, and more in detail explain these connections in the context of a self-chosen and delimited area
  • can explain the main global climatic regions and biomes, and in more detail describe the climate regions and vegetation regions nationally
  • can carry out map and literature search on physical geography within a self-chosen area and put the results to use in analysis and description of this area
  • can discuss the greenhouse effect and global warming in a local context.

General competence:

  • insight into the connections between different natural phenomena and processes and how they have shaped and still are changing the environment
  • competence about nature as natural resources, but also about carrying capacity and consequences of human exploitation.
In addition to the semester fee and course literature, students are expected to provide their own laptop computer. Students must cover board and lodging expenses during the gatherings. Potential bus expenses for excursions are paid by Nord University.
Compulsory for students at the one-year programme in Geography or bachelor programme in Geography and Spatial Planning. Elective for other students.

The teaching is mainly given in connection with three gatherings, two physical and one digital. At the physical gatherings, there are lectures, excursions and group work.

In the periods between the gatherings, there is work with assignments that receive individual feedback, and online support/activities.

Participation in physical gatherings and assignments is compulsory. The gatherings normally take place on campus Levanger, or at another location in Trøndelag.

Physical gatherings are mandatory because excursions and experience with different environments are central to geography. However, exemption from gatherings can be granted for special reasons such as acute illness, granted top sports status or other. Application for exemption with documentation is sent to the study counselor. Study work as an alternative to the gathering must be expected.

The programme of study is evaluated annually by the students through course surveys (mid-term evaluation and final evaluation). The evaluations are part of the university’s quality assurance system.

Composite assessment. Students will receive a letter grade.

  • Obligatory participation accounts for 0/100 of the grade and will be approved / not approved.
    • Must be passed before the beginning of the Home Exam.
  • Assignments account for 0/100 of the grade and will be approved/not approved.
    • Must be passed before the beginning of the Home Exam.
  • The home exam will take place over 14 days and account for 100% of the grade. Students will receive a letter grade.
No prerequisite knowledge required apart from meeting admission requirements.
Subject language
Norwegian
Credits
10
Study location
Levanger
Teaching semesters
Autumn 2024
Responsible faculty
Faculty of Social Sciences
Course coordinator
Employee photo: Ivar Svare Holand
Associate Professor

Ivar Svare Holand

ivar.s.holand@nord.no