Module OSX-4408:
Field & Lab Oceanography

Run by School of Ocean Sciences

20 Credits or 10 ECTS Credits

Semester 1

Organiser: Dr Yueng-Djern Lenn

This module will give students a practical experience of acquiring oceanographic and geophysical data from both the RV Prince Madog and smaller boats. In addition the students will be responsible for cruise planning, operations at sea, process, calibrate, interpret and report on the data acquired.

In the laboratory the students will engage in geophysical fluid laboratory demonstrations and a computer based practical involving tidal analysis and prediction.

Together these aspects equip them to devise and develop a full scientific proposal in which they will build a case for support and fully cost a proposed project of their choice.

This course provides practical instruction into the conduct of oceanographic research in the field and laboratory.

Topics covered includes: Characteristics and uses of oceanographic and geophysical instrumentation: characteristics. Acquisition and methods of analysis of the geophysical and oceanographic data for science. Laboratory demonstrations of geophysical theories and principles.

threshold

A basic appreciation of the data collection and analysis techniques used in field and laboratory oceanography. Basic ability to master some simple computer techniques associated with programming and data analysis. Basic ability to solve numerical problems using appropriate techniques and to interpret the results. Complete all practical reports, deriving some sort of an answer in each case.

good

Able to appreciate the data collection and analysis techniques used in physical oceanography. Able to master some simple computer techniques associated with programming and data analysis. Good ability to solve numerical problems using appropriate techniques, and to interpret the results.

Threshold plus numerically correct assignment work in which an interpretation of the results is attempted.

excellent

Considerable appreciation of the data collection and analysis techniques used in physical oceanography. Considerable ability to master some simple computer techniques associated with programming and data analysis. Thorough ability to define and solve numerical problems using appropriate techniques, and to interpret the results.

Good plus the ability to solve problem and provide a robust interpretation of the results.

1. Implement signal processing techniques on acoustic Doppler current profiler data to separate signals of different frequency

2. Process and interpret data using the Geographic Information System framework

3. Conduct a range of oceanographic surveys from the point of acquisition to the reporting stage.

4. Critically analyse the underpinning oceanographic theory and models used for interpretation

5. Devise and develop a scientific project to test fundamental geophysical theories by building a case for support for a scientific project. Clearly outlining aims, objectives, methodology, risks and deliverables, as well as providing a detailed budget and a justification of resources.

Type	Name	Description	Weight
COURSEWORK	GIS		25
REPORT	Prince Madog		35
COURSEWORK	Proposal writing exercise		30
COURSEWORK	Lab Practical Handout		10

		Hours
Lecture	Lectures 1 hour, 5 per week over 5 weeks [= 24 hours contact time]	24
Private study		167
Workshop	Computer exercises in two sessions of 3 hours	6
Laboratory	Laboratory practical: wave tank	3

• Literacy - Proficiency in reading and writing through a variety of media
• Numeracy - Proficiency in using numbers at appropriate levels of accuracy
• Computer Literacy - Proficiency in using a varied range of computer software
• Self-Management - Able to work unsupervised in an efficient, punctual and structured manner. To examine the outcomes of tasks and events, and judge levels of quality and importance
• Exploring - Able to investigate, research and consider alternatives
• Information retrieval - Able to access different and multiple sources of information
• Inter-personal - Able to question, actively listen, examine given answers and interact sensitevely with others
• Critical analysis & Problem Solving - Able to deconstruct and analyse problems or complex situations. To find solutions to problems through analyses and exploration of all possibilities using appropriate methods, rescources and creativity.
• Safety-Consciousness - Having an awareness of your immediate environment, and confidence in adhering to health and safety regulations
• Presentation - Able to clearly present information and explanations to an audience. Through the written or oral mode of communication accurately and concisely.
• Teamwork - Able to constructively cooperate with others on a common task, and/or be part of a day-to-day working team
• Mentoring - Able to support, help, guide, inspire and/or coach others
• Management - Able to utilise, coordinate and control resources (human, physical and/or financial)
• Argument - Able to put forward, debate and justify an opinion or a course of action, with an individual or in a wider group setting
• Leadership - Able to lead and manage, develop action plans and objectives, offer guidance and direction to others, and cope with the related pressures such authority can result in

Compulsory in courses:

• F734: MSci Physical Oceanography year 4 (MSCI/PO)