SCIE2223
10 units
2000 level
Course handbook
Description
Being at the beach is an integral part of Australia's culture, but have you ever wondered how and where the waves come from? Why do some beaches and headlands have great waves for surfing but not others? Through the study of weather and the structure of our coasts, such as beaches and reefs, you will gain an understanding of what makes good surfing waves. The major topics will include an introduction to weather systems and the atmosphere; an introduction to oceans and ocean processes including waves, currents and tides; and how weather and waves combine to generate surf. The course will be structured around online learning modules complemented with both laboratory and field exercises.
Availability2024 Course Timetables
Newcastle City Precinct
- Semester 1 - 2024
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of the course students will be able to:
1. Describe and explain the physical properties of the atmosphere and how they drive weather systems.
2. Describe and explain the physical properties of the ocean and the major oceanic processes.
3. Describe and explain how waves are generated, how they behave, and what creates good surfing waves.
4. Collect, analyse, and interpret field data and observations from the coastal zone and use this information to forecast weather and waves.
5. Work effectively as a team in both field and classroom-based situations.
6. Evaluate risks, work safely in, and communicate data generated from both field and laboratory environments.
Content
- Atmospheric dynamics including energy balance, moisture and cloud development
- Atmospheric circulation patterns and weather hazards
- Introductory ocean properties, including ocean current systems and tides
- Wind generated waves in deep and shallow water and waves for surfing
- Introduction to coasts including beaches and reefs
- Weather forecasting and wave models for surf forecasting
Assessment items
Quiz: Quizzes on online learning modules
Report: Field and laboratory reports
Online Learning Activity: Online workbook activities and presentation
Contact hours
Semester 1 - 2024 - Newcastle City Precinct
Computer Lab-1
- Face to Face On Campus 4 hour(s) per week(s) for 1 week(s) starting in week 5
- Compulsory Requirement: Students must attend 100% of sessions.
Computer Lab-2
- Face to Face On Campus 4 hour(s) per week(s) for 1 week(s) starting in week 11
- Compulsory Requirement: Students must attend 100% of sessions.
Field Study-1
- Face to Face Off Campus 4 hour(s) per week(s) for 1 week(s) starting in week 9
- Compulsory Requirement: Students must attend 100% of sessions and complete the safety/knowledge induction.
Field Study-2
- Face to Face Off Campus 4 hour(s) per week(s) for 1 week(s) starting in week 3
- Compulsory Requirement: Students must attend 100% of sessions and complete the safety/knowledge induction.
Online Activity-1
- Online 3 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting in week 1
Tutorial-1
- Online 3 hour(s) per week(s) for 1 week(s) starting in week 10
Tutorial-2
- Online 3 hour(s) per week(s) for 1 week(s) starting in week 13
Tutorial-3
- Online 3 hour(s) per week(s) for 1 week(s) starting in week 4
Course outline
- SCIE2223 - Semester 1, 2024 (Ncle) (PDF, 187.8 KB)
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.