Understanding the Earth

Pre-requisites for enrolment

The course is suitable for those without prior experience of university study. You will need to have reading, listening and communication skills, including the ability to understand detailed ideas and information presented orally and in writing, equivalent to the SQA Literacy Unit at National 5.

You must be comfortable studying in English if it is not your first language. We recommend that you have a high B2 level on the CEFR.

You will need basic digital skills, such as using a computer and navigating a website, to access the study materials.

Special Information

You will require access to a computer or other device with internet connection. You won’t need to bring a device to class. All essential course readings will be provided or are freely available online.

Content of Course

Learn how the Earth works by exploring processes at a range of scales from planet to atom. The origin of the Earth; plate tectonics; the formation of sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic rocks; how rocks record clues about past environments; all will be used to develop an understanding of the Earth.

Teaching method(s)

Classroom-based lectures and practical activities.

Learning outcomes

On completion of this course, you should be able to:

1. Understand the fundamentals of planet Earth – its age, composition and Solar System context.
2. Relate Earth’s dynamic processes (seismicity, volcanism and mountain formation) to plate tectonics.
3. Distinguish igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic rocks and appreciate the different aspects of Earth history that they reveal.

Queries

If you have questions regarding the course or enrolment, please contact COL Reception at Paterson's Land by email COL@ed.ac.uk or by phone 0131 650 4400.

Student support

If you have a disability, learning difficulty or health condition which may affect your studies, please let us know by ticking the 'specific support needs' box on your course application form. This will allow us to make appropriate adjustments in advance and in accordance with your rights under the Equality Act 2010. For more information please visit the Student Support section of our website.