Course Objective

The aim of this course is to familiarise students with the
multidisciplinary aspects of studying geological processes, using
different kinds of local observations that can be synthesised to
generate larger scale insights. This approach is illustrated by looking
at the geological evolution of Cyprus. Another objective of the course
is to orient
students in tackling phenomenological observations derived from
particular natural laboratories. It is the aim to make students familiar
with the principles of 'problem-based learning techniques' by making
field observations.

Course Content

The excursion follows a transect through Cyprus, from the coast to the
top of Mount Troodos. The excursion addresses a range of inter-related
tectonic, petrological
and sedimentary processes associated with the formation and emplacement
of the Troodos ophiolite and overlying metamorphic and sedimentary
rocks. Students will consider the processes involved directly in front
of the outcrops. The students learn to understand the nature, structure
and evolution of spreading ridges, transform faults, mass transfer, and
associated petrological and sedimentological processes and geochemical
cycles. Students train critical thinking and communication skills in
group discussions.

Teaching Methods

Approximately 11 day field programme

Method of Assessment

Information written down in the field note books will be evaluated and
their overall evaluation will be part of the grade, and a written
examination will be scheduled during the return trip or after our return
to Amsterdam. Active participation in the field surveys and possibly
discussions / presentations during the
evening sessions (10%)

Entry Requirements

Participation in the compulsory programme of the Specialization Geology
and
Geochemistry of the MSc Earth Sciences and having passed 12 ec worth of
courses from this programme.

Literature

Excursion guide and possibly selected additional publications from the
scientific literature.

Target Audience

Compulsory for students in year 2 of the MSc Earth Sciences - Geology
and Geochemistry.

Additional Information

Rules concerning the deadline for subscription and having proper
mountain equipment will be strictly enforced. Due to field logistics,
the excursion may start a few days earlier than the official start of
the academic year. The final dates will be announced as early as
possible, but before June 1st.

In 2019, the excursion will go to Cyprus and will be led by Prof. Gareth
Davies.

On the basis of past experience our best estimate for the student
contribution to expenses for travel and subsistance for this course is
approximately 540 euros per person; This may be less if you manage to
find cheap flights.

Custom Course Registration

Admission is granted to students who took the compulsory courses of year 1 of the G&G programme in Blocks 1-3) and have earned at least 12 ec for those courses. Participants should register in time (before June 1st) using VUnet and should notify the responsible staff by e-mail.

Recommended background knowledge

Sedimentary Basins AM_450154 and Orogenesis AM_450190.