Geology: Geocomputing

Introduction to a variety of computing tools commonly used in sciences and geosciences in particular. Hands-on experience; real data are used to resolve specific problems. Prerequisite: A Catamount Core N1 or N2 course.

Minimum sophomore standing PACE students by permission and override

This class is an introduction to a variety of computing tools commonly used in earth sciences. Hands-on experience is at the heart of the teaching of this class. Oriented toward scientific curriculum, you will use real data to resolve specific problems encountered in geosciences. The specific software used in that class will provide you with: i) in-depth understanding of the functions of calculating, statistical and graphical tools (excel, JMP), ii) the ability to treat and extract data from images using imageJ and photoshop, and iii) an introduction to GIS mapping (QGIS). By producing maps from the microscale to the planetary scale (Mars, Earth), you will capture the essence of the multiscale approach necessary in scientific studies. A key aspect of this class is to “de-demonize” these tools. This course is approved as a “Geospatial Technology in the Disciplines” course for the Geospatial Technologies" minor and fulfills the QD requirement. Course goals and objectives: 1. Enable students to understand and use effectively a large variety of modern scientific software. 2. Enable students to extract all information from complex (real) datasets. 3. Provide students with marketable skills while investigating multiscale geo-related real case problems.

Short introductions of the topics, basic concepts and context approached in the class will constitute a preamble to hands-on use of the computing facility. In addition to these remote sessions, homework projects will serve the in-depth development of specific computing tools. There are no books required for this class. The source of data used in the class will be extracted from the instructor library as well as the literature and span from the geology of Mars to the interaction of metals in soils.

Grades will be based on 6 homework assignments (50%) and daily attendance (20%). A final project (creating a video tutorial for youtube on one of the course task) will contribute to 30% of the grade.