Snow, Ice and Climate

Learning Outcomes

Why are glaciers touted as being excellent indicators of climate change? How do glaciers respond to climate? What will be the impact of current rapid glacial retreat on world water resources, sea level rise, and tourism? What about ski-fields – will they survive a warming climate?  

The lecture programme begins by exploring glacier mass balance and considering the challenges of measuring snow accumulation and ice ablation in mountainous regions.  The intricacies of glacier motion are considered in-depth, and the unit on glacier hydrology highlights how knowledge of water systems are highly transferable. Material presented in lectures is reinforced by a lab programme utilises real field data, and students have the opportunity to learn practical snow measurement skills in a one-day field trip to a local ski field.

After completing this course students should be able to:
Explain the processes involved in determining glacier mass balance, ice motion and glacier hydrology, and be able to discuss interactions between these processes;
Describe key research and development in the discipline pertaining to these central themes by referral to academic literature;
Be able to provide specific examples of glacier-related research conducted in New Zealand, as well as at other significant research glaciers around the world.
Develop a range of analytical, practical and academic skills including; the use of spreadsheet software and GIS to facilitate research-orientated data analysis, interpret and understand a range of graphical data, use relevant formulae to calculate and predict physical parameters, write clearly and concisely and in an accessible scientific style, and, communicate science to an audience.
Discuss the importance of  understanding the cultural and social implications of undertaking research on public conservation land

University Graduate Attributes

This course will provide students with an opportunity to develop the Graduate Attributes specified below:

	Critically competent in a core academic discipline of their award Students know and can critically evaluate and, where applicable, apply this knowledge to topics/issues within their majoring subject.
	Employable, innovative and enterprising Students will develop key skills and attributes sought by employers that can be used in a range of applications.
	Biculturally competent and confident Students will be aware of and understand the nature of biculturalism in Aotearoa New Zealand, and its relevance to their area of study and/or their degree.

Prerequisites

For further information see School of Earth and Environment .