Learning outcomes

The geology and environment course aims to raise students' awareness on management and protection issues of groundwaters and soils. The course is included in a reflection on sustainable development.

Goals

To provide the vocabulary and basic notions of hydrology and hydrogeology (water resources) and pedology (soil resources and evolution) enabling geologists and geographers to discuss with specialists.

Content

The course is subdivided into two parts:

Hydrogeology (10 hours): - Introduction - Calculation of the hydrogeological balance (estimate of water resources) - Concepts of hydrogeology - Methods for studying aquifers - Protection of water catchments and aquifers

Pedology (10h) - Introduction/awareness - Soil constituents - Soil properties - Soil in the ecosystem - Migration phenomena - Soil profiles - Soil geography - Soil degradation - Soil map

Assessment method

The examination is based on the interpretation of geological, hydrogeological and pedological maps. It requires a concrete interpretation of the information available on the maps so that the student can characterize the physical environment.

This concrete interpretation includes taking into account concepts explained in the theoretical course, practical cases presented in the courses and during practical work as well as concepts observed during the field excursion.

The exam consists of two parts: hydrogeology and pedology, each counting for 50% of the final mark.

The hydrogeology part is evaluated as follows:

  • 75% of the points for the written assessment.
  • 25% of the points for a group work carried out during the practical work, presented orally and evaluated individually.

The pedology part is evaluated as follows:

  • 75% of the points for the written assessment.
  • 25% of the points for a report of the field day, prepared by small groups, presented orally and graded for each group.

In case of score < 10/20 for one of the parts, the failed score is absorbing and implies a maximum of 9/20 for the total score.

Success in a part implies a partial exemption for a later session (no obligation to retake the successful part).

Attendance at the practical work and the field day is mandatory.

Sources, references and any support material

Fetter C., 2001. Applied hydrogeology. Prentice Hall Ed. ISBN 0-13-088239-9. Pipkin B., Trennt D., Hazlett R., Geology and the environment. Thomson Ed.isbn 0-534-49051-4

Castany G., 1998. Hydrogeology. Principles and methods. DUNOD. ISBN 2-10-004171-1

Language of instruction

Français
Training Study programme Block Credits Mandatory
Bachelor in Geology Standard 0 4
Bachelor in Geography : General Standard 0 4
Bachelor in Geography : General Standard 3 4
Bachelor in Geology Standard 3 4