GEOE309 HISTORICAL GEOLOGY AND PALEONTOLOGY

Course Code:5640309
METU Credit (Theoretical-Laboratory hours/week):4 (3.00 - 2.00)
ECTS Credit:6.0
Department:Geological Engineering
Language of Instruction:English
Level of Study:Undergraduate
Course Coordinator:Prof.Dr. SEVİNÇ ALTINER
Offered Semester:Fall Semesters.

Course Objectives

Course objectives:

  • Provide students with the basic knowledge of chronologic earth history and life record.
  • Teach students how to treat and analyze paleontologic data and their classification into reasonable categories.
  • Teach students methods of correlation of rock bodies and how to interpret the reasoning behind this correlation.
  • Teach students how to analyze the morphologic features of fossil groups in the laboratory, using appropriate tools.
  • Teach students how to order geologic events in the field, using stratigraphic and paleontologic data.

Course Content

Ordering geologic events. Geological time concepts and methods of correlation. Chronological earth history and life record. Classification of the major fossil groups and their significance in the evolution of life.


Course Learning Outcomes

At the end of this course, you will have become better in………..

  • understanding as how events interrelate with each other
  • integrating knowledge from different sources to solve geological problems
  • taking new information and effectively integrating with previous knowledge
  • using knowledge from various courses in an integrated manner
  • bringing together different information and ideas
  • seeing the whole as well as the parts
  • learning how to systematically identify a natural process
  • observing very small differences between similar looking objects and/or processes
  • seeking information on problems from various sources
  • understanding the importance of learning what has already been done to solve a given problem
  • organizing information into meaningful categories
  • using some basic geologic tools (concept) to understand natural phenomena
  • applying scientific method in researching natural processes
  • recognizing interrelationships among problems
  • applying logical (systematic) approach in solving problems
  • applying principles already learned to new problems
  • learning to develop a 3-dimensional image from a 2-dimensional view
  • basic knowledge in the area of historical geology and paleontology which you may use in practice of geological engineering
  • using appropriate engineering tools (microscope) and methods to solve geologic problems
  • using computer tools and applications effectively
  • learning independently
  • thinking by yourself
  • generating many potential solutions to a given problem
  • managing (deal with) unknowns or open-ended questions effectively
  • using graphics effectively to support the points being made 

Program Outcomes Matrix

Contribution
#Program OutcomesNoYes
1An ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of engineering, science, and mathematics
2An ability to apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs with consideration of public health, safety, and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental, and economic factors
3An ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences
4An ability to recognize ethical and professional responsibilities in engineering situations and make informed judgments, which must consider the impact of engineering solutions in global, economic, environmental, and societal contexts
5An ability to function effectively on a team whose members together provide leadership, create a collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks, and meet objectives
6An ability to develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use engineering judgment to draw conclusions
7An ability to acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies
8An ability to visualize topographical and geological features in 4-D for solving Geological Engineering problems