London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)

Modules

Geographies of development [109]

154 Geomorphological applications

Prerequisites

If taken as part of a BSc degree, 150 Geomorphological processes

Aims and objectives
The unit will consider applications of geomorphological knowledge to ‘real-world’ problems and issues. Rather than concentrating on a limited number of processes or environments, the unit will take a more thematic approach, under five general headings.

Learning outcomes
By the end of the unit, students should have a thorough grasp of techniques and applications of geomorphology within a range of case studies, within a framework that allows the student to tailor investigations towards their own specific environmental interests.

Syllabus
First, the specific techniques required for field-, map- or computer-based assessments of geomorphic problems will be assessed.
Secondly, the role of geomorphology in understanding natural hazards will provide a focus for approaches that could be considered as reactive.
Thirdly, more proactive approaches within conservation and management will be addressed.
Fourthly, the use of geomorphic studies in planning will continue the proactive theme.
Fifthly, illustrations of how these different approaches may be integrated will be given by evaluating the role of applied geomorphology in the context of understanding the effects of potential future climate change.

Assessment
This unit is assessed by a 3 hour unseen written examination.

Essential reading
[NB Shorter list of titles to be chosen from the following indicative list. To beconfirmed at preliminary draft stage of the guide.]Allison R.J. Applied Geomorphology: Theory and Practice. (Chichester: John Wiley and Sons, 2002) [ISBN: 978-0471895558]
Downs, P. and K.J. Gregory River Channel Management: Towards Sustainable
Catchment Hydrosystems. (London: Arnold, 2001) [ISBN: 978-0340759691]
Fookes, P.G., M. Lee and G. Milligan (eds) Geomorphology for Engineers
(Caithness: Whittles Publishing, 2003) [ISBN: 978-1870325035]
Goudie, A., M.G. Anderson, T. Burt, J. Lewin, K. Richards, B. Whalley and P.
Worsley (eds) Geomorphological Techniques. Second edition (London:
Routledge, 1994) [ISBN: 978-0415119399]
Gregory, K.J. The Changing Nature of Physical Geography. (London: Arnold,
2000) [ISBN: 978-0340741191] Chapters 7 and 8 on the development of applied
geomorphology.
Heywood, I., S. Cornelius and S. Carver Introduction to Geographic Information
Systems. 3rd Edition. (London: Prentice Hall, 2006) [ISBN: 978-0131293175]
Kay, R. and J. Alder Coastal Planning and Management. 2nd edition. (London:
SPON Press, 2005). [ISBN: 978-0415317733]
Morgan, R.P.C. Soil Erosion and Conservation. 3rd edition. (Oxford: Blackwell
Scientific, 2004). [ISBN: 978-1405117814].
Smith, K. Environmental Hazards. Assessing Risk and Reducing Disaster. 4th
edition. (London: Routledge, 2004) [ISBN: 978-0415318044]
Viles, H. and T. Spencer. Coastal Problems: Geomorphology, Ecology and Society
at the Coast. (London: Arnold, 1995) [ISBN: 978-0340531976]
Wainwright, J. and M. Mulligan (eds) Environmental Modelling: Finding
Simplicity in Complexity. (Chichester: John Wiley and Sons, 2003) [ISBN: 978-
0471496182]
All information in this document is subject to confirmation in the 2008-09 Programme Regulations for degrees and diplomas in Economics, Management, Finance and the Social Sciences that are reviewed annually.