B4866 - SISTEMI COSTIERI

Learning outcomes

By the end of the course, students will be able to practically apply the acquired knowledge and skills for the analysis of depositional and environmental dynamics of coastal systems at various timescales (from Milankovitch to sub-centennial scales). Specifically, students will be able to: i) plan and apply a multi-proxy investigation; ii) efficiently deal with different data types (e.g., lithological, paleontological, geochemical data) within a stratigraphic context and iii) evaluate critically the interactions between depositional environments, climate variability and human activities.

Course contents

• Coastal plains, deltas (microtidal context): basic concepts on coastal environments and facies, spatial-temporal relationships with adjacent depositional systems, controlling factors, vulnerability and resources.
• Proxy data and current state of knowledge about climate variability and sea-level changes at Milankovitch and sub-Milankovitch scales, focusing on the present interglacial.
• Integrated stratigraphic approach and proxies for coastal studies (e.g., sedimentological and geomorphological features, micropaleontological and geochemical indicators).
• Depositional and environmental dynamics of delta-coastal plains at various timescales (case studies from the late Quaternary record of the Mediterranean area).
• Anthropogenic impact on coastal systems: changes in sediment and organic-matter fluxes, wetland degradation, depositional dynamics versus human settlements.

Readings/Bibliography

Lecture notes and selected scientific articles will be provided during the course. The didactic material will be deposited in the Virtuale platform at the end of each lesson.

Teaching methods

Lectures, practical exercises including microscope and field work.

Given the types of activities and teaching methods adopted, attendance for this learning activity requires all students to complete Modules 1 and 2 in e-learning mode, as well as to participate in Module 3, which provides specific training on health and safety. Information on the dates and attendance procedures for Module 3 can be found in the dedicated section of the degree program website.

Assessment methods

Written/practical exam (3 open questions/exercises on the course contents; time limit: 2 hours) + short oral exam (1-2 questions). The written/practical exam, if passed, will be considered valid for one year. The final score will be calculated considering a weight of 70% for the practical exam and 30% for the oral exam.

Students with learning disorders and\or temporary or permanent disabilities: please, contact the office responsible (https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/en/for-students) as soon as possible so that they can propose acceptable adjustments. The request for adaptation must be submitted in advance (15 days before the exam date) to the lecturer, who will assess the appropriateness of the adjustments, taking into account the teaching objectives.

Teaching tools

LCD projector, microscopes.

Office hours

See the website of Veronica Rossi