ESCI 132

Antarctica : Unfreezing the Continent

Victoria University’s long involvement with studies in the Antarctic provides the background to this course. Although primarily an introduction to the natural history of the Antarctic continent many other diverse topics are covered including:

• History of exploration of the continent.
• Antarctica’s role as a recorder of past climate change and its importance in any future change in climate.
• The geological history of Antarctica and the development of the ice sheets.
• The history of life on the continent.
• The human experience in Antarctica.

Its very broad approach makes this an ideal paper for science and non-science students alike. There are no formal laboratory sessions. However, broader issues surrounding Antarctica will be discussed in a series of tutorials.

How much do I need to know?

ESCI 132 is run by the Geology group in the School of Geography, Environment and Earth Sciences. However, you do not need to have studied Earth Sciences, Geology, or even general science before - the course is open to everyone!

Teaching is carried out by a wide variety of people both from within Victoria and outside. In addition to staff from the Geology group invited lecturers in previous years have included Bill Manhire (Poet VUW), Chris Cochran (Heritage Architect), Cath Wallace (Public Policy VUW), Erick Brenstrum (Metservice), representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Antarctica New Zealand. Most of the lecturers and all of the tutors in this course have been to Antarctica.

Timetable

2nd trimester
Lectures:
Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 1:10-2:00 pm
Tutorials:
To be advised

Point value: 15 points

Need more information?

Dr Cliff Atkins
Ph: 463 6143
e-mail: cliff.atkins@vuw.ac.nz

Or see the official course information.