Course Descriptions GEOS7004 Earth Science and Environmental … Course Outlines.pdf · 2015-08-13 · Course Descriptions – GEOS7004 Earth Science and Environmental Management

Course Descriptions – GEOS7004 Earth Science and Environmental Management GEOS7004/ENVM8010 Earth Science and Environmental Management (3 credits)

Offering Department Earth Sciences

Course Coordinator and

teacher Dr. Yi-Liang Li, Department of Earth Sciences [email protected]

Course Aim

The earth environment is made of atmosphere, ocean and continent. The most dynamic

geological process operates along the coast, a narrow zone between the terrestrial

environment and the vast ocean. Nearly half of the world population lives 150 km within

the coast zone, which raises numerous environmental issues. In this course we firstly focus

on the dynamic geology and ecological structure of the coastal zone; then we analyze how

human activity changes the dynamics of geological process and imbalances the fragile

coastal ecosystem. Based on the above-mentioned facts we discuss the critical management

issues and management frameworks at different levels in the view of sustainable

development. This course is characterized by lots of comparative analyses on the physical

geology and human impacts on the coastal zones of California and Hong Kong.

Course Contents

This course will examine major issues of the geological dynamics of the coastal zones and

human activity raised environmental issues and management. Many case studies are based

on the current natural and human impacts of California and Hong Kong.

The course will cover the following topics:

The dynamic geology of coastal zone

The ecological structure of coastal zone

The population of coastal zone and the thus exerted environmental pressures

Geological and environments hazards of the coastal zone

Sustainable development of the coastal zone

Environmental managements of the coastal zone

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of the course the students should be able to:

Understand how the dynamic geology develops coastal environments;

Have a clear picture of the coastal geology of Hong Kong area;

Have a clear picture of the human activities on the geo- and ecological

environments of the coastal zone of Hong Kong;

Demonstrate the general knowledge of environmental managements on coastal

zones.

Pre-requisites Nil

Teaching and learning methods 18 hours of lectures, 20 hours of course project and several home essay assignments.

Assessment Methods Written 2-hour examination (70%) and coursework assessment (30%).

Grade Descriptors

Grade A Is good, very good, or excellent in using basic principles and essential skills

in practice. Requires very limited supervision. Is creative, work is virtually

error free and writes well. Can apply learning in unfamiliar situations.

Grade B Is generally competent in using the basic principles and the essential skills in

practice but requires some supervision.

Grade C Is able to state most of the basic principles but is poor at using them, and the

essential skills, in practice without direction.

Grade D Marginal Pass and any Pass in a supplementary examination.

Fail Does not know most of the basic principles and has not mastered the

essential skills used in practice.

Textbook Coastal system and human impacts. Online course material by Bruce Perry of California

State University – Long Beach.

References

Lung Sang Chan. Geological Heritage of Hong Kong. Aristo Educational Press Ltd. 2014,

188 pages of main text. Available in the University of Hong Kong bookstore.

Timothy Beatley, David J. Brower, Anna K. Schwab. An introduction to coastal zone

management. 2nd

edition, Island Press: Washington, 2002, 329 pages.

LYL/AWM 8.12.2014

mailto:[email protected]

THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN APPLIED GEOSCIENCES

GEOS 7010 Geology: Principles and Practice

Objective

Provides an opportunity for students with a background outside the earth sciences to learn

fundamental geological concepts and principles

Class schedule (3 hour classes)

Earth’s structure and plate tectonics GCZ

Minerals (1) MFZ

Minerals (2) MFZ

Plutonic rocks MFZ

Volcanic rocks MFZ

Sedimentary rocks MFZ

Earth Resources MFZ

Metamorphic rocks GCZ

Rock examination test + Folds and faults GCZ

Earthquakes GCZ

The early Earth GCZ

Supercontinents in Earth’s history GCZ

Teaching and Learning Methods

The course is taught through class lectures and laboratory classes. Learning is reinforced by

regular home assignments and a rock recognition test.

Assessment Methods

Achievement will be assessed by examination (70%) and coursework (30%). A 3-hour written

examination will be held at the end of the semester. During the course there will be a number of

homework assignments.

Grade Descriptors

Grade A Is good, very good, or excellent in using basic principles and essential skills in

practice. Requires very limited supervision. Is creative, work is virtually error free

and writes well. Can apply learning in unfamiliar situations.






Fail Does not know most of the basic principles and has not mastered the essential skills

used in practice.

GEOS7010

Course Text

The Good Earth: Introduction to Earth Science by David McConnell et al., Published by

McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc., 1st edition, 2008.

Learning Outcomes

1. Know Earth’s structures and composition and understand the principles of plate tectonics.

3. Have a general knowledge of mineralogy and petrology, and common methods to identify

rock-forming minerals and major igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic rocks on hand-

specimens.

4. Have general knowledge about Earth resources and major geological processes that led to their

formation.

5. Know major features of folds and faults, including their classification and geological

significance.

6. Understand major geohazards and their environmental effects (e.g. earthquakes and tsunami).

7. Demonstrate an understanding of early Earth and supercontinents in the Earth’s history.

Course Coordinator: Prof. Guochun Zhao ([email protected])

Teachers: Prof Guochun Zhao (JL409); Prof. Mei-Fu Zhou (JL303),

AWM/GCZ 15.9.14

Master of Science in the field of Applied Geosciences

Faculty of Science Department of Earth Sciences University of Hong Kong

Course GEOS7011 Advanced Geology of Hong Kong

Objective Provide geologists with the opportunity to gain in-depth knowledge of the geology of Hong Kong.

Course schedule

Lectures/classroom sessions (3 hours)

Geology of Hong Kong - Geological Background and Units (JRA)

Igneous rocks of Hong Kong – plutonic suites and volcanic stratigraphy of Hong Kong, recognition and

classification of volcanic rocks and formations (RJS)

Metamorphic rocks of Hong Kong – history of metamorphism, metamorphic structures and mineralogy,

major metamorphic rocks of Hong Kong (RJS)

Hong Kong’s young and surficial geology (JRA)

Hong Kong’s key structural geology features (JRA)

Unresolved problems/new insights into the geology of Hong Kong (RJS)

Revision/consultation class (JRA)

Fieldtrips (each ~8 hours)

Magmatic rocks on southern Hong Kong Island (RJS with JRA)

NW New Territories (RJS with JRA)

Tolo Channel/western Mirs Bay (JRA)

Practicals and discussion

1. Petrographic study of Hong Kong’s igneous and metamorphic rocks (two sessions linked to the

relevant classroom sessions).

2. Examination of the Hong Kong geological map in the class on HK structures.

Teaching and learning methods The course uses a combined lecture-directed study approach. The students will also write two field reports

related to two of the field sessions plus a ~2500-word essay on a topic related to the geology of the New

Territories.

Assessment Methods

Field report related to trip #1. (12.5% of the course mark.)

Field report related to trip #2. (12.5% of the course mark.)

Essay on either a specific element of broader view of the geology of the New Territories (25% of the course

mark.) The third fieldtrip is linked to this.

The 3-hour final examination accounts for 50% of the course mark.

Grade Descriptors

Grade A Is good, very good, or excellent in using basic principles and essential skills in practice.

Requires very limited supervision. Is creative, work is virtually error free and writes well. Can

apply learning in unfamiliar situations.

Grade B Is generally competent in using the basic principles and the essential skills in practice but

requires some supervision.

Grade C Is able to state most of the basic principles but is poor at using them, and the essential skills, in

practice without direction.


Fail Does not know most of the basic principles and has not mastered the essential skills used in

practice.

GEOS7011

Course Text

The main recommended references are Hong Kong Geological Survey memoirs ‘The Quaternary Geology

of Hong’ and ‘The Pre-Quaternary Geology of Hong Kong’, both published by Geotechnical Engineering

Office, Civil Engineering & Development Department.

Learning objectives

1 Acquire a thorough understanding of the main components of the geology of Hong Kong,

and its regional setting, including the distribution and interpretation of the main rock types,

age relationships, and superficial deposits, and the locations and orientations of the main

regional and local structures.

2 Able to identify and describe the main rock types (volcanic, intrusive, sedimentary and

metamorphic) that occur in Hong Kong, and to understand the principles of their formation

classification, and interpretation.

3 Able to explain the important geological structures in Hong Kong and the adjacent parts of

southern China and how they might have been generated.

4 Able to describe the origin, environment of deposition, description, and classification of the

superficial deposits in Hong Kong.

5 Able to explain some of the problematic areas in our understanding of Hong Kong’s geology as

well as the areas where major revisions are being made to the knowledge base.

Pre-requisites

At least a BSc major/full degree in Earth Sciences/Geology or a closely allied subject.

Teachers: GEO; Dr Jason R. Ali, DES, HKU, [email protected] Dr Rod J Sewell, Geological Survey of HK,

[email protected]

Coordinator: Dr Jason R. Ali

JRA/AWM 28.11.14




Department of Earth Sciences

University of Hong Kong

Course on Site Investigation & Engineering Geological Techniques GEOS7012

Objective

To explain the role of the engineering geologist in the civil engineering industry and

facilitate the learning of the concepts and skills used in best practice by the engineering

geologist.

Course schedule

Andrew Malone The design of site investigations and the work of the 6 hours

Engineering Geologist

Andrew Malone The Desk Study and Walkover Survey 3 hours

Kevin Styles Air Photo Interpretation: hands-on training 6 hours

David Clayton Subsurface Exploration: Boring, Drilling, Probing 9 hours

& Trial Pitting: Sampling Techniques: Reporting

+ half-day site visit

Philip Chung Laboratory Testing 9 hours

+ half-day Laboratory Practical

Andrew Malone The description and classification of soil and rock 6 hours

for engineering purposes. Engineering Geological plans.

+ half-day field class Po Shan landsliding basin

Andrew Malone Uncertainty in Geotechnics and the Site Investigation 3 hours


The course is taught mainly through class lectures. About half of the classes comprise

class lectures and use problem-based learning with students in small work groups. Air

photo interpretation is taught through class lectures and stereoscope practical work. The

sessions on sub-surface exploration, engineering geological plans and laboratory testing

are taught in class lectures supplemented by field and laboratory visits. Learning is

reinforced by regular assignments.

Assessment Methods

Achievement will be assessed by examination (70%) and coursework (30%). A 3-hour

written examination will be held at the end of the semester. There will be a choice of five

questions out of six. During the course there will be four homework assignments. These

will be set on or about 23 Jan, 20 Feb, 20 March and 3 April.

GEOS7012

Grade Descriptors




Grade B Is generally competent in using the basic principles and the essential skills

in practice but requires some supervision.






Course Text

The course textbook is: ‘Site Investigation’, Clayton, Matthews & Simons, published by

Blackwell, 1995. Available on the web: www.geotechnique.info

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Know how civil engineering projects are accomplished, and how civil engineering

design is carried out. Class 1

2. Understand when and how geological knowledge is best applied in the interests of

safety, economy and the environment. All classes.

3. Demonstrate the ability to formulate appropriate questions for geotechnical site

investigation. Class 2

4. Can create simple engineering geological models; can carry out basic soil & rock

description and characterisation and simple air photo interpretation tasks. Classes 3-5, 10

5. Can critically evaluate the quality of ground investigation operations and the reliability

of the associated data Classes 6-9. Classes 8 and 9 also contribute to the ability to use soil

mechanics in geotechnical design.

6. Demonstrate an understanding of the significance of uncertainty in geotechnical

prediction and for site investigation. Class 11

Course Lecturers

Andrew Malone DES t 2559 2555 f 2517 6912 [email protected]

Kevin Styles Fugro t [email protected]

David Clayton Dragages t 3476 0715 [email protected]

Philip Chung GEO t 2760 5712 f 2762 2389 [email protected]

Pre-requisites

Pass in GEOS7010 Geology: Principles and Practice, GEOS7015 Rock Mechanics,

GEOS7016 Soil Mechanics.

Co-ordinator: Andrew Malone

AWM 19.8.14

http://www.geotechnique.info/



GEOS7015 Rock Mechanics

Objective:

To introduce the engineering geologist to the basic concepts of rock mechanics as used in

geotechnical practice.

Course schedule:

Classes 1, 2 and 3 Introduction to basic concepts of mechanics, Dr Wing Sun (GEO) following

the first four chapters of Ryder's Strength of Materials, with a recap on trigonometry

Classes 4, 5 and 6 Introductory rock mechanics, Mark Wallace (Arup) in three 3-hr classes

Kinematic analysis of rock slope stability

Index properties, strength and deformability of intact rock

Strength and deformation characteristics of rock masses

Teaching:

Six 3-hr classes over 6 weeks

Dr Sun’s classes will comprise a lecture followed by a problem solving tutorial. Students will

need to bring their scientific calculators to class.

Students who are unfamiliar with Spherical Projection methods are advised to prepare for Mr

Wallace’s class on 17 September by studying Appendix 5 in the recommended textbook

Assessment:

There will be one 2-hour unseen written examination (70%) and coursework (30%), including 3

home assignments.

Grade Descriptors




GEOS7015






Fail Does not know most of the basic principles and has not mastered the essential

skills used in practice.

Textbooks:

Goodman RE 1989 Introduction to rock mechanics 2nd

ed New York: Wiley

Ryder GH 1969 Strength of Materials 3rd

ed London: Macmillan

Learning outcomes

1. To be able to describe and explain the distribution of internal forces under the actions of

external loads and its effects on the behaviour of engineering materials, including rock.

2. To be able to perform calculations on stress and strain as used in rock mechanics, including

those related to the axial compression and tension tests and those using the Mohr’s circle

stress diagram.

3. To be able to use index tests for engineering mass and material classification.

4. To be able to analyse laboratory compression and tension test results and derive intact rock

deformability and strength parameters.

5. To be able to carry out and critically assess kinematic analysis of rock slope stability (wedge,

block, topple) using joint orientation data plotted on spherical projection.

6. To be able to characterize the strength of rock joints for slope stability analysis using the

Barton/Bandis and Hencher/Richards approaches.

7. To be able to apply and critique the methods used to characterize and model the strength and

deformability of rock masses, including the Q-system, the RMI method, the Hoek-Brown

approach and the Geological Strength Index (GSI).

Course coordinator:

Prof AW Malone Tel: 2559 2555 [email protected]

Course teachers:

Dr Wing Sun GEO [email protected]

Mark Wallace Arup [email protected]

AWM 5.2.2014






GEOS7016 Soil Mechanics

Course objective

To give engineering geologists with no prior learning in Soil Mechanics an understanding of the

basic theories and how they are used in geotechnical engineering.

Schedule of classes

Analysis of plane stress (and strain) 3 hrs

Elasticity in geomechanics 3 hrs

Phase relationships; compaction; effective stresses 3 hrs

Consolidation; shear strength 3 hrs

Lateral earth pressure 3 hrs

Bearing capacity and settlement 3 hrs

Teaching and learning methods

The course is mainly taught by class lectures. Learning is monitored by short Q-A sessions and

home assignments.

Assessment methods

One 2-hr written examination (70%) and coursework (30%) consisting of 3 home assignments.

Grade Descriptors











Course Text

Atkinson, J. 1993. An introduction to the mechanics of soils and foundations through critical

state soil mechanics. McGraw-Hill, London. 2nd edition Spon 2008.

Learning outcomes

1. Can carry out simple calculations on the state of a soil sample.

2. Can use Darcy’s Law and flow nets to calculate pore pressures in the ground.

3. Can determine the theoretical earth pressure acting on a soil retaining wall using

Rankine’s and Coulomb’s Methods.

GEOS7016

4. Can use Terzaghi’s 1D consolidation theory to evaluate the time-dependant settlement

of the ground.

5. Can use the Mohr Circle construction to determine stresses acting on planes within the soil

and the Mohr-Coulomb failure criterion to evaluate the frictional and apparent cohesion

components of shear strength from the results of direct shear and triaxial tests.

Lecturer: Philip Chung Tel: 2762 5300 [email protected]

Coordinator: Andrew Malone Tel: 2559 2555 [email protected]

AWM 5.2.2014





Course Outline GEOS7020 Project I (3 credits)

Objective

To facilitate the learning of the skills needed to carry out a project involving scientific study, and of the

scientific principles relevant to the topic of the study.

Course Summary

The first phase of a self-directed study of a problem in applied geosciences, involving literature review, data

acquisition and data analysis. Students are required to write an inception report and give an oral

presentation. In the case of part-time students, work is required on the project during the summer following

the second semester.

Topic

The topic should be one agreed by the prospective adviser.

Adviser

The adviser shall be a member of the academic staff of the Department of Earth Sciences. The adviser

will review and comment on written submissions from the student and provide advice when asked. The

adviser will not direct and monitor the student’s work.

Data

The data may be that obtained from the student’s own observations, or provided by the adviser, or

acquired from publications or obtained from an archive.

The Project Plan Presentation Students are required to present their Project Plan, with a 500 word handout, to an invited audience.

Presentations will be assessed using the MSc Oral Presentation Scorecard.

The 10-minutes oral presentation, and the 500-word handout, will cover the following topics:

(i) the question(s) to be answered; max 40 words, each sentence ending in a question mark

(ii) the data need and how it will be acquired

(iii) what will be done with the data

(v) possible roadblocks

(vi) bar-chart programme

Maximum number of PowerPoint slides permitted: 10.

Max number of words per slide permitted: 60.

Minimum font permitted: 20-pt.

At least half of the slides should have illustrations.

A Q & A session follows. A class-mate should be appointed to record the questions and answers. The Q

& A record must be sent to the adviser and Programme Director within 7 days of the presentation.

GEOS7020

Assessment

Students will be assessed on the quality of their scientific work and their command of the skills referred to

in the Learning Outcomes.

Grade Descriptors


Requires very limited supervision. Is creative, work is virtually error free and writes well.

Can apply what has been learnt to new situations.



Grade C Is able to state most of the basic principles but is poor at using them, and the essential skills,

in practice without direction.



practice.

Learning Outcomes

LO1 can use the scientific principles relevant to the topic.

LO2 can exercise the skills needed to carry out the project. These include how to: plan, programme and

complete a project on time; ask the right questions, obtain and organize data, formulate test and abandon

hypotheses, graphically display results, recognise patterns in data, use IT skills; make an oral presentation,

write a technical report, exercise scientific rigour; specific scientific skills, such as those involved in the

making of a geological map or the execution of a laboratory experiment.

Course Coordinator

Prof YC Chan Tel: ; email: [email protected]

AWM 8.8.14




Geological Fieldwork I GEOS7021 3 credits

Objectives

To introduce non-geologists to the procedures used for making geological observations in

the field. Geologists will learn the methods employed by the Hong Kong Geological

Survey.

Course schedule

Lung Sang CHAN Seminar: Geology of Hong Kong 3 hrs

Tammy Pui Yuk TAM Workshop: Interpreting geological maps 3 hrs

Tammy Pui Yuk TAM Workshop:

Hands-on Practise on interpretation of geological maps 3 hrs

Lung Sang CHAN Day trip: Igneous rocks and volcanic history 8 hrs

Tammy Pui Yuk TAM Day trip: Sedimentary fm and Cenozoic geology 9 hrs

Tammy Pui Yuk TAM Day trip: Structures & geological history 9 hrs

Reading material

Hong Kong Geological Survey memoirs ‘The Quaternary Geology of Hong’ and ‘The

Pre-Quaternary Geology of Hong Kong’, published by Geotechnical Engineering Office,

Civil Engineering & Development Department.

Teaching and learning methods The course involves 3 lectures (each of 3 hours) and 3

guided field trips (each of 8-9 hours). Students have to self-directed study in the field

leading to the production of field sheets, narrative accounts and other geological records

for assessment. The fieldwork should comprise no less than three full days in the field

and may be undertaken in association with the excursions of the Department of Earth

Sciences, the local learned societies or independently. For each day in the field, students

will need to spend at least 3 hours in completing geological records. They have to

summarize the field features, account for the observation and interpret the unsolved

problems in a field report. Learning is monitored by the course coordinators each

Semester.

Assessment Methods

Achievement will be assessed by coursework (100%), marked on a Pass/Fail basis.

GEOS7021

Grade Descriptors Pass Can apply the basic principles and essential skills in practice, with or without

supervision.



Learning Outcomes Non-geologists are expected:

1. To learn how to plan a route for efficient acquisition of geological information

and to navigate and position fix.

2. To learn the skills of documentation of geological information in the field.

3. To learn how to interpret a geological map and make a cross-section.

4. To learn the field safety code.

Geologists are expected:

1. To learn the methods of documentation and map-making similar to those

employed by the Hong Kong Geological Survey.

2. To learn the status of current thinking about unresolved geological problems in

Hong Kong.

Teachers

Tammy Pui Yuk TAM 28578577 [email protected]

Lung Sang CHAN 28598022 [email protected]

Coordinator

Tammy Pui Yuk TAM





Course on Management GEOS7024

Course objective

To provide engineering geologists with an understanding of the organisation and methods of

working of the construction industry.

Schedule of classes

Dr CK Lau Overview of the Course. 6 hours

Engineer's and contractor's site organisation,

common forms of contract, specifications,

methods of measurement, quantities &

cost estimation, variations and claims,

dispute resolution.

Ambrose Kwong Project framework, procurement of investigation, 6 hours

design & construction services, project programming

Ambrose Kwong Construction site safety, health & 3 hours

environmental aspects: Relevant regulations,

environmental impacts of works &

mitigation strategies.

Ambrose Kwong Quality control and quality assurance. 3 hours


The course is taught mainly through class lectures each of 3 hours duration.

Assessment Methods

Achievement will be assessed by a 2 hour written examination (70%) and coursework (30%)

consisting of three homework assignments.

Grade Descriptors






GEOS7024






Course Text and recommended reading

Civil Engineering Project Management by A.C. Twort & J.G. Rees, Butterworth-Heinemann

(2003)

Civil Engineering Procedure, Institution of Civil Engineers 6th edition (2009)

Modern Construction Project Management (2nd Ed) by S L Tang, S W Poon, Syed M Ahmed,

Francis K W Wong

Learning outcomes

1. Can explain the main elements in conventional forms of construction contracts and the advantages and disadvantages in employing each of these types of contract.

2. Can describe the main methods of dispute resolution employed in the construction

industry.

3. Can explain briefly how contractors manage civil engineering projects in the

planning, programming and control of construction works.

4. Can prepare a programme for a construction project using Precedence Network

Analysis. 5. Can analyse the case history of a construction accident to identify the factors which

contributed to the cause of failure.

6. Can explain the administrative and statutory regulatory systems employed in Hong Kong

to reduce construction safety and environmental risk.

7. Can explain the processes of quality control and quality assurance and the operation of

the ISO 9000 series Standards for Quality Assurance.

Course coordinator

Prof Andrew Malone Tel: 2559 2555 [email protected]

Course Lecturers

Ir Ambrose Kwong (Univic Construction) Tel: 2898 8510 E-mail: [email protected]

Dr C K Lau (Fong On) Tel: 2891 8359 Email: [email protected]

AWM

6.2.2014






GEOS7033 Geology of Hong Kong

Objective

The course gives an introduction to the geology of Hong Kong for non-geologists who have passed the

prerequisite course GEOS7010.

Course Schedule

Lecture/classroom sessions (3 hours each)

Course overview and summary of the geology of Hong Kong and museum visit

Igneous rocks

Sedimentary rocks

Metamorphic rocks

Geological structures

Quaternary geology and surficial processes

Hong Kong Geopark

Field classes (8 hours each):

Field trip to observe igneous rocks in the southern part of Hong Kong

Field trip to look at igneous rocks, sea erosion and geological structure in Sai Kung

Field trip to see major faults, folds and sedimentary rocks at Tolo Channel

Practicals and discussion:

Hand specimen study of Hong Kong’s igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic rocks, linked to the relevant

classroom sessions

Examination of maps, readings and discussion to study Hong Kong’s geological history


The course uses lectures, field classes and practical sessions to study Hong Kong geology in the classroom

and the field. The students are required to write two reports related to two of the field trips plus an essay

(about 2500 words) on a theme related to Hong Kong geological history.

Assessment

Field report related to trip #1 (12.5% of the course mark)

Field report related to trip #2 (12.5% of the course mark)

Essay on Hong Kong geological history, with some content from trip #3 (25% of the course mark)

The 3-hour final examination (50% of the course mark)

Grade Descriptors



Can apply learning in unfamiliar situations.







practice.

GEOS7033

Course Texts

‘The Quaternary Geology of Hong Kong’ and ‘The Pre-Quaternary Geology of Hong Kong’, published by

the Geotechnical Engineering Office, Civil Engineering & Development Department.

Learning outcomes:

1. Can explain the principal components of the geology of Hong Kong in their historical and regional

context, including the distribution of the main rock types and the nature of the main regional and local

geological structures.

2. Has a basic understanding of the main rock types that occur in Hong Kong and how they formed.

3. Has a basic understanding of the superficial deposits in Hong Kong and the development of the

present landform.

4. Has a basic understanding of the Hong Kong's various-scale geological maps and can use the

embedded cross-sections to help in their interpretation.

5. Has a basic understanding of the geological features/phenomena that may pose problems for

construction/development, such as karstification, weathering, shear zones and jointing, and post-glacial

marine deposits.

Pre-requisites

Course GEOS7010 Geology Principles and Practice

Teacher and Coordinator: Dr. Tammy PY Tam [email protected]

TT/AWM 7.1.15



Faculty of Science



Hydrogeology GEOS8001

Objective

To study the role of sub-surface water in engineering and environmental applications

Course schedule:

1.Introduction to Hydrogeology/Aquifer Properties/Water In Unsaturated Zone, 3 hours

2.Hydraulic Head And Flow Net/Water Level In Slopes, 3 hours

3.Basic Equations Of Groundwater Flow/Groundwater Flow To Wells, 3 hours

4.Aquifer Tests, 3 hours

5.Groundwater Contamination & Tracer test, 3 hours

6.Introduction To Groundwater Flow Modelling, 3 hours

7.Field aquifer testing (slug test, Guelph test, Double ring test), Half day (Saturday

morning)

Classes are held in three-hour sessions in the evenings. Field testing is carried out on one

of the Saturday mornings.


The course is taught mainly through class lectures. Learning is monitored by three home

assignments and one field report. .

Assessment Methods


written examination is held. There will be a choice of four questions out of five.

Grade Descriptors










used in practice.

Course Text

The course textbook is: ‘Applied Hydrogeology’, Fetter, 2001

GEOS8001

Learning Outcomes

1) Understands the importance of hydrogeology in geotechnical and environmental

engineering and the main hydrogeological problems in Hong Kong

2) Understands that groundwater flow usually occurs in a regional flow system and that

there is a close relationship between such a system and topography and geology. Be

able to think hydrogeologically.

3) Knows the basic principles of groundwater flow and the main aquifer properties

4) Knows how to use basic field aquifer tests to estimate some important aquifer

parameters.

5) Knows the important steps in setting up a numerical groundwater model

Lecturer: Prof JJ Jiao Tel: 2857 8246 email: [email protected]

AWM 26.6.14




Professional Practice in Applied Geosciences GEO8002

Objective

To provide tools and information to help practitioners deal with some of the non-technical

problems they will face in their careers, including legal hazards, ethical dilemmas and project

shortcomings or failure.

Schedule of classes (each 3 hours)

Andrew Malone (HKU):

Analysing the Kwun Lung Lau disaster; Regulation of professional practice; Assignment no. 1

Barry Hoy (Robertsons):

Sources of law in Hong Kong

Law of Tort: negligence; Assignment no. 2

Introduction to contracts

Andrew Malone

The risk management process and examples of its use; Assignment no. 3

Role of trade associations, learned societies, professional qualifying bodies and professional

licensing systems

Teaching and Learning Methods:

The course is taught by class lectures and problem-based learning sessions with students in small

work groups. Learning is reinforced and monitored by home assignments.

Assessment:

Academic performance is assessed by coursework (30%) and examination (70%). There will be a

2-hour written examination at the end of the semester. Three home assignments will be set.

Grade Descriptors:



and writes well. Can apply learning to unfamiliar situations.







used in practice.

Learning Outcomes

1. Capable of analysing accounts of failures fairly and dispassionately and recognising the

organisational and human factors which contribute to the cause of shortcoming or failure.

Can use the James Reason model. Insists on knowing the facts before making a judgement;

exhibits judicial habits of mind (the ability to find an impartial solution, form an opinion for

oneself, identify and question assumptions).

GEOS8002

2. Understands the constitution of the Hong Kong SAR, the sources of law in Hong Kong and,

at an introductory level, the Law of Tort with respect to professional negligence. Can

formulate an elementary defence to a professional negligence claim.

3. Understands the function of a contract and the formation of a valid contract. Capable of

recognising the elements of a contract and understands the significance of the arrangements

for the allocation of risk between the parties in the various forms of civil engineering contract.

4. Capable of using the risk management process in professional work.

5. Understands the purpose of trade associations, learned societies, professional qualifying

bodies and professional licensing systems.

6. Is aware of the legal, professional and market frameworks for the control of professional

conduct.

Textbook Peter Wesley-Smith, An Introduction to the Hong Kong Legal System, Oxford University Press, 1998

Pre-requisites

No pre-requisite courses are prescribed but students unfamiliar with Law should prepare

themselves for the course by reading the recommended textbook.

Course coordinator

Andrew Malone tel 2559 2555 fax 2517 6912 [email protected]

Teachers

Andrew Malone and Barry Hoy tel 2861 8315 fax 2868 5820 [email protected]

Robertsons

AWM 9.9.14




Department of Earth Sciences University of Hong Kong

Course outline GEOS8003

Seminars on unforeseen ground conditions, geotechnical and environmental failures

Objective:

To be able to analyse failures/accidents and draw lessons relating to technical, human and organisational

factors.

Course schedule:

Andrew Malone, HKU The Abbeystead Tunnel Explosion UK on 23 May 1984

Matthew Lam, Clyde & Co The Lamma Ferry Disaster on 1 October 2012

Andrew Malone The Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill USA on 20 April 2010

Ken Ho, Geotechnical Engineering Office The Ching Cheung Road landslide of 3 August 1997

Jimmy Jiao, HKU A Civil Action – Woburn, Mass, USA

Andrew Malone Settlement due to tunnelling at Tsuen Kwan O in 1999

This is a course of student-led seminars - read the following instructions very carefully.

Start by reading the course Learning Outcomes.

The reading material for each seminar is listed below. Having studied this material, teams of students will

make presentations to the class. Each person will speak for a maximum of 15 minutes and then answer

questions from the class. Presenters should each use no more than 15 PowerPoint slides, at least half of

which should have illustrations. Each presenter should appoint a team-mate to record the Q&A for their

presentation.

In presentation 1, state briefly the salient facts relating to the circumstances of the failure/accident. For all

cases (except the Lamma Ferry Disaster) include relevant facts about site history, physical works carried

out, geology and groundwater.

In presentation 2, analyse the acts of the main parties involved in the failure/accident using the James

Reason model. Identify the technical, human and organisational factors which contributed to the cause of

the failure/accident.

In presentation 3, describe in detail the acts and/or omissions which contributed to the cause of the

failure/accident. Give an opinion on whether the failure/accident was reasonably foreseeable by the parties

whose act(s) and/or omission(s) contributed to the cause of the failure/accident.

Teams of 3 presenters must collaborate by exchanging PowerPoint files 7 days before the seminar, and

agreeing each other’s presentations. They must ensure there are no errors or omissions in the factual

content presented by team-mates or disagreements on the opinions expressed. PowerPoint presentation files

must be sent to the instructor (copied to [email protected]) at least 3 days before the seminar.

Student 4 will read the reading material for the seminar and make a written record of presentations (300

words) and discussion (200 words) and send the written record to [email protected] within 7 days of the

seminar. These records will be issued to the class.



GEOS8003

Student groups will analyse each presentation and question the presenters. Group 1 will formulate and

present the defence case for one of the parties involved in the failure/accident. Group 2 will attempt to

negotiate an agreement between Group 1 and the presenters.

The instructor will facilitate the proceedings by correcting errors and omissions in the presentations,

assigning the groups, selecting the party to be represented by Group 1 and giving guidance to help

attainment of the learning outcomes.

Assessment 1. Academic achievement will be assessed against the Learning Outcomes stated below. Oral presentation

(30%, using the MSc Oral Presentation scorecard) or written record (30%, student 4); first assignment

paper (30%); second assignment paper (40%).

2. After making their presentations, the presenters and the recorder (student 4, if any) are required to

prepare individually an essay of around 800 words analysing and summarising the technical, human and

organisational factors which contributed to the cause of the failure/accident. The assignment submission

must be emailed to the class, the instructor and [email protected] within 7 days of the presentation. Do

not use bullet points or tables.

3. The second assignment must integrate material from all cases studied. Write a newspaper-style opinion

article of about 800 words under the headline: Failure has multiple recurring causes. To be submitted to

[email protected] before 3 May.

4. Attendance at all Seminars is compulsory and examination attendance rules will apply to any absentees.

Latecomers will be required to submit an additional assignment paper.

Grade Descriptors










practice.

Learning Outcomes 1. Can analyse case histories of engineering failures using the James Reason model to examine the

multiple factors, technical, human and organisational, which contributed to the cause of the failure.

2. Can generalise the findings from a series of failure case analyses and draw conclusions.

3. Insists on knowing the facts before making a judgement and thinks fairly and dispassionately

about controversial matters, such as engineering failures.

4. Effective in oral, written and graphical communication.

5. Works well in a team; collaborates well in completing tasks and negotiates with others in coming

to a decision.

Seminar Instructors

Jimmy Jiao, HKU DES t2857 8246 f2517 6912 [email protected]

Andrew Malone, HKU DES t2559 2555 f2517 6912 [email protected] course coordinator

Ken Ho, Deputy Head (LPM), GEO t2760 5711 f2624 4135 [email protected]

Matthew Lam, Partner Clyde & Co. t2878 8600 f 2522 5907 [email protected]







GEOS8003

Reading Material

General Blockley DL 2011, Engineering safety Proceedings ICE Forensic Engineering v164 FE1 7-13

Abbeystead

Eckersley v Binnie 1988 18 Construction Law Reports 1.

Health & Safety Executive 1985. The Abbeystead explosion. London: HMSO.

Knill JL 2003 Core values: the first Hans-Cloos lecture Bulletin Eng Geol & the Environment v 62, no.1 1-

34

Orr, W.E. et al 1991. The Abbeystead outfall works: background to repairs and modifications and the

lessons learned. J Inst Water Environmental Management, v5, 7-20.

The Lamma Ferry Disaster

Lunn M.V. & Tang B.K.B. 2013 Report of the Commission of Inquiry into the Collision of Vessels near

Lamma Island on 1 October 2012 (The Redacted Version)

Tsuen Kwan O

Kwong, A. K. L. 2005. Drawdown and Settlement Measured at 1.5 km away from the SSDS Stage I

Tunnel C (A Perspective from the Hydro-geological Modelling). K. Y. Lo Symposium, London, Ontario.

Maunsell Consultants Asia Ltd 2000. Unusual settlement in Tsuen Kwan O Town Centre, Final Report to

Territory Development Department, Hong Kong Government.

Troughton et al, 1991. Prediction and control of groundwater, vibration and noise for construction of

Hongkong Bank seawater tunnel. Proc 6th

Int. Symp. Tunnelling. (Tunnelling ’91). London. 411-423.

Ching Cheung Road

Halcrow Asia Partnership Ltd, 1998. Report on the Ching Cheung Road landslide of 3 August 1997.

Geotechnical Engineering Office.

Halcrow Asia Partnership Ltd, 1999. Addendum report on the Geology and Hydrogeology of Slope No.

11NW-A/C55, Ching Cheung Road. Landslide Study Report 12/99 Geotechnical Engineering Office.

Geotechnical Control Office, 1989. Cut slopes 11NW-A/C55 & C56, Ching Cheung Road. Geotechnical

Control Office, Hong Kong, Stage 3 Study Report No. S3R 11/89 (unpublished).

Geotechnical Control Office, 1989. Engineering Geology Study of slopes 11NW-A/C55 & C56, Ching

Cheung Road. Geotechnical Control Office, Hong Kong, Advisory Report no. 1/89. (Unpublished).

Maunsell Consultants Asia 1973. Report on landslides on Ching Cheung Road. Report to Public Works

Department, Hong Kong Government (unpublished).

Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill

(Study the pre-spill only; do not cover the post-spill problems)

National Commission on the BP Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill and Offshore Drilling 2011 Deepwater: the

Gulf Oil Disaster and the Future of Offshore Drilling Report to the President p87-127, 215-247 & 249-254

http://www.oilspillcommission.gov/sites/default/files/documents/DEEPWATER_ReporttothePresident_FI

NAL.pdf

Woburn Massachusetts water supply

E. Scott Bair, Maura A. Metheny. 2008. Lessons Learned from the Landmark "A Civil Action" Trial.

Ground Water. October 2008

E. Scott Bair, Warren W. Wood 1999. A Civil Action-What Will Be the Legacy of Wells G and H?

Ground Water Volume 37, Issue 2, Date: March 1999, Pages: 161-162

Harr J & Asher M 1998 A Civil Action Vintage Books

http://ce547.groups.et.byu.net/woburn/index.php

More information is available by Internet search.

AWM 1.5.15

http://www.oilspillcommission.gov/sites/default/files/documents/DEEPWATER_ReporttothePresident_FINAL.pdf

http://www.oilspillcommission.gov/sites/default/files/documents/DEEPWATER_ReporttothePresident_FINAL.pdf

http://ce547.groups.et.byu.net/woburn/index.php




GEOS8005 / EASC6003 Field Testing and Instrumentation in Engineering Geology /

Geophysical Techniques

Objective

To introduce the engineering geologist to the use of in-situ testing techniques and geophysical

methods in civil engineering

Lecture Schedule

Course introduction and Ground Penetrating Radar Prof P Wu (HKU)

Geotechnical instrumentation Ir Ian Solomon (FGS)

Geotechnical In-situ testing Ir Ian Solomon (FGS)

Electrical and electromagnetic methods Prof P Wu (HKU)

Seismic methods Prof P Wu (HKU)

Marine geophysics methods Dr Margie Chen (EGS)


The course is taught mainly through 3-hour class lectures and a field demonstration given by

experts practising in Hong Kong. Emphasis is given to recent case histories in Hong Kong.

Learning is reinforced by regular assignments.

Assessment Methods

Achievement will be assessed by a 2-hour written examination (70%) and coursework (30%).

During the course there will be three homework assignments.

Grade Descriptors











Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the course, students are expected to be able to

1. Describe the various basic methods used in the field in geotechnical testing

2. Describe the function and limitation of the methods used in field testing

3. Make recommendations on the viability of using specific methods in geotechnical site

investigation.

GEOS8005

Course texts Kearey, P. and Brooks, M., An Introduction to Geophysical Exploration, 2nd ed, 1991, Blackwell.

Milson, J., Field Geophysics, 2nd

ed., 1996, J. Wiley & Sons.

Dunnicliff, J., Geotechnical Instrumentation for Monitoring Field Performance, 1993, J. Wiley &

Sons.

Pre-requisites

Pass in GEOS7010 Geology: Principles and Practice, GEOS7015 Rock Mechanics, GEOS7016

Soil Mechanics.

Coordinator: Prof P Wu, Earth Sciences, HKU ([email protected])

Guest Instructors: Ir Ian Solomon, Director, Fugro Geotechnical Services;

Dr Margie Chen, Senior Geophysicist, Electronic & Geophysical Services

Dr Wallace Lai, Hong Kong Polytechnic University

AWM 19.8.14



Course Outline GEOS8020 Project II (9 credits)

Objective

To facilitate the learning of the skills needed to carry out a project involving scientific study and of the

scientific principles relevant to the topic of the study.

Course Summary

The second phase of a self-directed study of a problem in applied geosciences involving literature review,

data acquisition and analysis, interpretation, presentation of findings and reporting. The work carried out

will be written up in an 8000 word report presented in HKU thesis format. Students will be required to

make an oral presentation of their preliminary results.

Adviser

The adviser will review and comment on written submissions from the student and provide advice when

asked. The adviser will not direct and monitor the student’s work.

Data

The data may be that obtained from the student’s own observations, or provided by the adviser, or

acquired from publications or obtained from an archive.

Presentation of the preliminary results Students are required to present their preliminary results, with a 500 word handout, to an invited audience.

Presentations will be assessed using the MSc Oral Presentation Scorecard.

Duration: 10 minutes

Materials: maximum 6 PowerPoint slides

Content: the presentation should cover the following:

1. Objective: what did you set out to achieve? Slide no.1

2. Methodology; what did you do? Slide nos. 2-5

3. Results: what did you achieve? Slide no.6

All slides should contain illustrations. Use plain background, without picture or texture. No slide may

have more than 60 words.

A Q & A session follows. Appoint a class-mate to record the questions and answers. The Q & A record

must be sent to the adviser and Programme Director within 7 days of the presentation.

Deadlines for the final stage of the project

First week in June: students will make an oral presentation of preliminary project results.

30 June: submit draft dissertation in standard format to adviser

Adviser comments to student specifying the further work, amendments and additions needed

31 July: submit final dissertation to adviser

20 August Adviser reports 9-credit Grade for GEOS8020 to Chief Examiner

GEOS8020

31 August: submit to DES Office two bound volumes, CD and HKU Library consent form.

Assessment

Students will be assessed on the quality of their scientific work and their command of the skills referred to

in the Learning Outcomes.

Grade Descriptors



Can apply what has been learnt to new situations.







practice.

The Required Standards for the Report A model report format will be provided. The Main Library and the DES General Office hold a collection

of past MSc dissertations which should be consulted for guidance on the standards required for the report.

Dissertations of a high standard include those by Law Shing Cheong 2013, Mok Ka Man 2012, Tsui Sau

Ngan 2011 and Wong Koon Yui 2010.

The binding specification is that applying to HKU higher degrees and may be viewed at Graduate School

website.

Learning Outcomes

LO1 can use the scientific principles relevant to the topic

LO2 can exercise the skills needed to carry out the project. These include how to: plan, programme and

complete a project on time; ask the right questions; obtain, organize and analyse data; formulate, test and

abandon hypotheses; use IT skills; make an oral presentation; write a technical report; exercise scientific

rigour; specific scientific skills, such as those involved the making of a geological map or the execution of

a laboratory experiment.

Course Coordinator

Prof YC Chan Tel: ; email: [email protected]

AWM 8.8.14




Geological Fieldwork II GEOS8021 3 credits

Objectives This course aims to further the field geology skills of graduate geologists by

experiential learning over 3 x 1 day practical field excursions.

Schedule

The instructor-led fieldtrips will take place in Southern Lamma Island, with mapping

and synthesis projects based in adjacent areas.

Field trip 1 MoTatWan - Tung O

Field trip 2 Tung O – Sham Wan

Field trip 3 LoSoShing coastline south (Introduction to report field areas)

Teaching and learning methods Experiential learning in the field under the guidance of an instructor.

Assessment Methods

Achievement will be assessed by coursework (100%), marked on a Pass/Fail basis.

Materials required for assessment 1 x final Field map

Field sheets

Notebook

Synthesis report

(Marked on pass/fail basis.)

Learning Outcomes

1. Can produce a geological map and fieldsheets of an area ~2km2

2. Can systematically record lithological and structural data and produce a brief

geological synthesis of the mapped area.

Grade Descriptors Pass Can apply the basic principles and essential skills in practice, with or without

supervision.



Instructor and Coordinator Dr. Jess King ([email protected])

JK/AWM 13.1.15




Course on Engineering Geology and Geotechnical Design GEOS8101 2014-15

Objective

To strengthen understanding of soil mechanics theory and gain an appreciation of how

theory is applied in geotechnical design. To recognize the role of empiricism in

geotechnical design and the shortcomings of theory.

Course schedule

Philip Chung GEO Stability of Geotechnical Structures (bound methods 6 hrs

and limit equilibrium method)

Stability of Slopes 6 hrs

Andrew Malone Practice in calculating stresses in the ground 3 hrs

Ken Ho GEO Earth Pressures and the Stability of Retaining Walls 4.5 hrs

Bearing Capacity and the Settlement of Shallow Foundations 4.5 hrs

Design of Piled Foundations 6 hrs

Practice in calculating forces acting on retaining walls 3 hrs

and the bearing capacity of foundations

Andrew Malone Burland’s Triangle; Role of the Engineering Geologist 3 hrs


The course is taught by class lectures and practice sessions. Some classes use problem-

based learning with students in small groups. Learning is reinforced and monitored by

home assignments and practice in calculations.

Assessment Methods

Achievement will be assessed by examination (70%) and coursework (30%). A 3-hr

written examination will be held at the end of the semester. There will be a choice of five

questions out of six. The coursework includes about five homework assignments.

Grade Descriptors






GEOS8101






Course Text

The required textbook is ‘An introduction to the mechanics of soils and foundations’, by

John Atkinson, published by McGraw-Hill, 1993. Chapters 18 to 23. Or the second

edition 2006 published by Routledge. Chapters 19 to 23.

Learning Outcomes

1 Understands the fundamentals of applied mechanics at an introductory level

(Atkinson 1993/2006 Chapter One).

2 Knows basic soil mechanics theory and how it is applied in geotechnical design.

This includes the Principle of Effective Stress, Consolidation Theory, Mohr-

Coulomb failure criterion, Bound Methods, Limit Equilibrium Method, Earth

Pressure theories, Bearing Capacity theories. Understands the limitations of and

approximations in the theory.

3 Is able to calculate theoretical soil stresses in the ground quickly and accurately

under various seepage conditions. To be able to evaluate changes in soil stresses

near retaining walls and in foundations.

4 Knows how the geotechnical engineer designs piles, retaining walls, shallow

foundations, landfills, marine reclamations and slopes.

5 Understands the place of soil mechanics theory, observation, geological models

and experience in geotechnical design, as expressed in Burland’s soil mechanics

triangle.

Pre-requisites

Course GEOS7016 Soil Mechanics

Teachers

Philip Chung 2762 5300 [email protected]

Ken Ho 2762 5051 [email protected]

Andrew Malone 2559 2555 [email protected]

Coordinator

Andrew Malone

AWM 14.9.14







GEOS8202 Development & Management of Mineral Resources (3 units)

Objective

To introduce students with background outside the earth sciences to mineral exploration

techniques, techniques in resource/reserve estimation and 3D modelling, mineral project risk

assessment, technical due diligence, economic evaluation and valuation of mining projects.

Schedule

3-hour lecture classes with discussion sessions

Introduction to mineral resources and mining procedures (MZ)

Exploration methodologies in mineral projects (JC, MZ)

Resource and reserve estimation, 3D modelling (JC)

Mineral processing technology (JC)

Mining and the environment (PF)

Risk assessment, economic evaluation and valuation of mineral projects (PF)

Assessment

2-hour unseen written examination (70%) and two written homework assignments (30%).

Grade Descriptors










used in practice.

Learning Outcomes

1. Gain an understanding of mineral exploration techniques, techniques in resource/reserve

estimation and 3D modelling,

2. Appreciate the basics of mineral project risk assessment, technical due diligence,

economic evaluation and valuation of mining projects.

GEOS8202

References:

Charles Moon, Michael Whateley, Anthony M. Evans, 2006. Introduction to Mineral

Exploration. Malden, MA; Oxford: Blackwell Pub. 481 p.

Ian Runge, 1998, Mining economics and strategies. Society of Mining, Metallurgy and

Exploration, Inc. 117 p.

Kesler, S. E., 1994, Mineral Resources, Economics, and the Environment: Macmillan, 391 p.

Coordinator: Mei-Fu Zhou ([email protected], JL303)

Teachers: Jacky Chan (Dragon Mining Consulting Ltd, [email protected])

Paul Fowler (Rockhound Ltd, [email protected]




Master of Science in Applied Geosciences

Course GEOS8204 Basic Structural Mechanics and Behaviour (3 credits)

Objective

To introduce engineering geologists to the concepts and vocabulary of structural mechanics and

behaviour as applied in civil engineering design.

Course Schedule

Approximate number of hours

(1) Behaviour of structural members 4

(2) Statically determinate and indeterminate structures 2

(3) Load transfer mechanism 2

(4) Design of reinforced concrete and steel members 4

(5) Design of foundations and retaining walls 4

(6) Tutorial 2


The course is mainly taught by class lectures and a tutorial session. Learning is monitored by short Q-A

sessions and home assignments.

Assessment methods

Achievement will be assessed by coursework (30%) and a 2-hour written examination (70%). The

coursework will comprise a set of exercises, questions involving solutions to structural mechanics

problems.

Grade Descriptors










practice.

Learning Outcomes

LO1 has a basic understanding of the general behaviour of structural systems especially in respect of

foundation and shoring designs.

LO2 can determine forces in pin-jointed axial force frames and the shearing forces, bending moments and

support reactions in simply supported beams.

LO3 can determine the deflections of simply supported beams.

LO4 can calculate the factor of safety against overturning and sliding of a gravity retaining wall and the

associated ground bearing pressures.

GEOS8204

LO5 can calculate the ultimate compression load capacity of steel sections.

LO6 can decide suitable main reinforcement for concrete slabs, by the method given in the Hong Kong

Code of Practice for Structural Use of Concrete 2013.

LO7 can determine the suitable size of and design the steel reinforcement for a reinforced concrete pad

footing for a column by the method given in the Hong Kong Code of Practice for Structural Use of

Concrete 2004 and check the adequacy of the pad foundation in shear.

Course Lecturer

Prof H K Ng email: [email protected]

Course Coordinator

Prof A W Malone Tel: 2559 2555; email: [email protected]

AWM/HKN 3.12.2014





GEOS8205 Mathematics I

Course objective

To provide earth sciences graduates with instruction in mathematics to meet the

academic requirements of the Hong Kong Institution of Engineers for membership in

the Geotechnical Discipline.

Course Contents (provisional)

1. Calculus

a) Functions

b) Differential calculus

i. Limit of a function / continuous functions

ii. First derivative of a function / rules of differentiation

iii. Higher-order derivatives / Taylor's theorem

iv. Applications: Approximations / finding maxima & minima/ l'Hopital's Rule

c) Integral calculus

i. Indefinite integral / anti-derivatives

ii. Definite integral / area

iii. Fundamental theorem of calculus

iv. Integration techniques: change of variables / integration by parts / substitution

v. Applications: Finding arc-lengths, areas, volumes, moments & centre of mass

d) Infinite sequences and series

i. Convergence tests

ii. Power & Taylor series

iii. Applications: Newton's method / improper integrals / numerical integration

2. Multivariable Calculus

a) Vectors and spatial geometry

i. Rectangular, polar, cylindrical & spherical coordinate systems

ii. Dot & cross product

iii. Lines, planes & surfaces

iv. Vector-valued functions

b) Differentiation

i. Partial derivatives & chain rule

ii. Directional derivatives & gradient vectors

iii. Tangent planes & differentials

GEOS8205

iv. Applications: maxima, minima, saddle points, approximation, Taylor's

theorem

c) Integrations

i. Double, triple & iterated integrals

ii. Change-of-variables in polar, cylindrical & spherical coordinates

iii. Line & surface integrals

iv. Green's, Stokes' & divergence theorems

v. Applications: work, conservative fields & potential functions

3. Basic Linear Algebra

a) Systems of linear equations

b) Row operations & Gaussian elimination

c) Matrices, matrix operations & determinants

d) Inverses of matrices

e) Eigenvalues & eigenvectors / diagonalization

f) Linear independence, bases & dimension


The course is mainly taught by class lectures. Learning is monitored by short Q-A

sessions and home assignments.

Assessment Methods


written examination will be held at the end of the semester in December 2014. During

the course there will be several homework assignments.

Grade Descriptors

Grade A Is good, very good, or excellent in using basic principles and essential

skills in practice. Requires very limited supervision. Is creative, work is

virtually error free and writes well. Can apply learning in unfamiliar

situations.

Grade B Is generally competent in using the basic principles and the essential

skills in practice but requires some supervision.

Grade C Is able to state most of the basic principles but is poor at using them, and

the essential skills, in practice without direction.




GEOS8205

Course Textbook

E. Kreyszig, Advanced Engineering Mathematics, latest edition, Wiley

Learning outcomes

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

LO1 Work with set operations;

LO2 Solve systems of linear equations using row operations on the corresponding

augmented matrix;

LO3 Compute determinants, inverses, eigenvalues / eigenvectors of square matrices;

LO4 Diagonalize symmetric matrices;

LO5 Identify positive / negative / in- definiteness of a matrix;

(For 1-variable Calculus)

LO6 Understand functions and their inverses, different operations between functions;

identify periodic, odd, and even functions;

LO7 Discuss the intuitive meaning of limit, continuity, and differentiability of a

function;

LO8 Compute limits using Limit Laws, techniques in factorization and rationalization,

sandwich theorem;

LO9 Compute derivatives using definition and rules of differentiation;

LO10 Apply Chain Rule for finding the derivatives of composited functions;

LO11 Explore the behaviour (e.g., increasing or decreasing properties, extreme points)

of a function using derivative tests and limits;

LO12 Discover the absolute Max/Min points of a function;

LO13 Apply the Taylor's theorem to find polynomial approximations to general

functions;

LO14 Work with Exp and log functions (e.g., differentiation and integration) and

sketch the two functions on the same x-y plane;

LO15 Understand indefinite integration as anti-derivatives, and definite integration as

area of graph of a function;

LO16 Compute areas / anti-derivatives using standard integration techniques (e.g.,

method of substitutions, integration by parts, sinusoidal formulas);

LO17 Calculate arc-length of a function, and volume of revolution;

(For Multivariate Calculus)

LO18 Compute partial derivatives for f(x,y) in the x- and y- directions, and then

generalize these concepts to functions of n variables;

LO19 Understand the meaning of partial derivatives;

LO20 Calculate the gradient and Hessian of f(x,y) at a point (a,b), then use these to

form the Taylor's approximation using Second Taylor Polynomial;

LO21 Discover critical points of a function f(x,y), then using the Hessian to identify

GEOS8205

local extremum / saddle points;

LO22 Convert between Cartesian system, Polar coordinate system, and Spherical

coordinate system;

LO23 Calculate partial derivatives using the chain rule for functions of several

variables;

LO24 Evaluate double / triple integrals using Fubini's theorem or using different

(Polar, Spherical) coordinate systems;

LO25 Calculate the area / volume of two / three dimensional objects.

Lecturer: Dr FL Tsang HKU Dept of Mathematics, Tel: 2859 2451, [email protected]

Coordinator: Prof Andrew Malone Tel: 2559 2555 [email protected]

AWM/FLT 15.11.14






GEOS8206 Mathematics II

Course objective

To provide earth sciences graduates with instruction in mathematics to meet the academic

requirements of the Hong Kong Institution of Engineers for membership in the Geotechnical

Discipline.

Course Contents (provisional)

1. Ordinary Differential Equations

a) Separable & exact equations / integrating factor

b) First- & second order linear equations

c) Characteristic equations & Wronskian

d) Method of undetermined coefficients / variation of parameters

e) Laplace transform & numerical methods

2. Partial Differential Equations

a) Separation of variables / Fourier series

b) Laplace: heat & wave equations

3. Probability and Statistics

a) Random variables & probability distribution

b) Sampling, estimation & hypothesis testing

c) Regression analysis


The course is mainly taught by class lectures. Learning is monitored by short Q-A sessions and home

assignments.

Assessment Methods

Achievement will be assessed by examination (70%) and coursework (30%). A 3-hour written

examination will be held at the end of the semester in May 2015. During the course there will be

several homework assignments.

Grade Descriptors


Requires very limited supervision. Is creative, work is virtually error free and writes

well. Can apply learning in unfamiliar situations.

GEOS8206

Grade B Is generally competent in using the basic principles and the essential skills in practice

but requires some supervision.

Grade C Is able to state most of the basic principles but is poor at using them, and the essential

skills, in practice without direction.



used in practice.

Course Textbooks

William E. Boyce, Richard C. DiPrima. Elementary differential equations and boundary value

problems, 8th ed. Hoboken: Wiley, 2005.

J. Crawshaw, J. Chambers. A concise course in advanced level statistics : with worked examples.

Cheltenham: Nelson Thornes, 2001.

Robert V. Hogg, Joseph W. McKean, Allen T. Craig. Introduction to mathematical statistics, 6th ed..

Upper Saddle River, N.J.: Pearson Education, 2005.

Learning outcomes

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

LO1. Identify ordinary differential equations (ODEs) and their orders.

LO2. Verify whether a given function is a solution to a given ODE.

LO3. Classify ODEs into linear and nonlinear types.

LO4. Solve first order linear differential equations using integrating factor method.

LO5. Analyze and solve first order nonlinear ODEs using exact equation.

LO6. Solve second or higher order homogeneous ODEs with constant coefficients using characteristic

equations.

LO7. Solve second order nonhomogeneous ODEs using the method of undetermined coefficients and

the method of variation of parameters.

LO8. Compute the Laplace transform of a function.

LO9. Compute the solution of second order ODEs with constant coefficients using Laplace transform.

LO10. Use the method of separation of variables to reduce some partial differential equations to

ODEs.

LO11. Calculate the Fourier series of periodic functions.

LO12. Find the Fourier sine and cosine series for functions defined on an interval.

LO13. Solve heat equation, wave equation, and the Laplace equation, subject to certain boundary

conditions using Fourier series.

LO14. Explain the concepts of sample space, probability (density) function, and random variable.

LO15. Identify different types of distributions, e.g., Binomial, Poisson, Normal.

LO16. Apply Central Limit Theorem to obtain the confident interval for population mean from

collected sample data.

Prerequisite

A pass in course GEOS8205 Mathematics I.

Lecturer: Dr FL Tsang HKU Department of Mathematics Tel: 2859 2451 [email protected]

Coordinator: Prof Andrew Malone Tel: 2559 2555 [email protected]

AWM/FLT 1.6.15





GEOS 8207 Global Climate

Coordinator: Dr Zhonghui Liu ([email protected])

Teacher: Dr Zhonghui Liu

Objective: This course provides some fundamental concepts and principles in

Climatology and some case studies in Climate Change. The course is designed for

students with background outside the earth sciences.

Schedule of classes (3 hours each):

Basics: Introduction to climatology and the atmosphere

The climate system: controls on climate

Energy balance

Moisture and hydrological cycle

General circulation and secondary circulations (I)

General circulation and secondary circulations (II)

Climates across space

Ocean-atmosphere interactions: NAO and PDO(?)

Ocean-atmosphere interactions: ENSO

Monsoons

Climate change: An overview

Review

Learning outcomes:

1. Understand aspects of global climatic systems,

2. Understand fundamental concepts and principles in climatology,

3. Explain the factors and physical processes controlling climate system,

4. Understand the driving forces of Earth’s climate change,

5. Recognize the history of Earth’s climate change.

Assessment

Home assignments (30%) and final 3-hour written examination (70%).

Grade Descriptors







GEOS8207






Recommended Texts:

Robert V. Rohli and Anthony J. Vega, Climatology (Jones and Bartlett Publishers, 2008).

Website: http://physicalscience.jbpub.com/book/climatology.

William F. Ruddiman: Earth's Climate: Past and Future, 2nd

edition.

AWM/ZHL 25.1.14

http://physicalscience.jbpub.com/book/climatology



Course outline GEOS8208 Climate change and the environment

Objective

To provide an understanding of the dynamic changes in climate, geological and biological

environments at the Earth’s surface during the last 2.6 million years (Quaternary Period). Course schedule Three-hour lectures and a laboratory session by Dr S H Li on the topics:

Introduction to the Ice Ages

Climate change in different time scales

Driving forces for climate changes

Climate change in arid regions

Quaternary geochronology

Luminescence dating and applications (laboratory)

Climate changes and human evolution, development

A field class with Dr S H Li and Dr Michael Pittman

Three-hour lectures and a laboratory session by Dr Michael Pittman on the topics:

Quantitative climate reconstruction and methods of environmental reconstruction

- Ice deposits

- Sea-level and coastal change

- Pollen analysis

- Pollen analysis (laboratory)

Regional studies of climatic and environmental change

- Climate change in Europe

- Climate change in Asia

A Seminar with group project presentations with Dr S H Li and Dr Michael Pittman

A lecture on the topic Future climate changes; with Dr S H Li and Dr Michael Pittman


The course is taught by class lectures, laboratory sessions, group projects and a field

class.

Assessment methods

1. 3-hour examination (50%)

2. Coursework assessment

i) Group projects and discussions (25%)

ii) Individual laboratory and fieldwork reports (25%).

GEOS8208

Grade Descriptors


practice. Requires very limited supervision. Is creative, work is virtually error

free and writes well. Can apply learning in unfamiliar situations.

Grade B Is generally competent in using basic principles and essential skills in practice,

but requires some supervision.

Grade C Is able to state most of the basic principles, but is poor at using them and the

essential skills in practice, without direction.




Learning Outcomes

1. Can explain the Earth’s climate changes during the last 2.6 million years.

2. Can apply methods of palaeo-environmental reconstruction.

3. Can explain and critically assess the impacts of past climate changes on the

geological and biological environments on the Earth’s surface.

Course Text

Anderson DE Goudie AS & Parker AG 2007 Global environments through the Quaternary

Oxford

Pre-requisites

Pass in course GEOS7010 Geology: Principles and Practice

Teachers

Dr S H Li t 2241 5486 [email protected]

Dr Michael Pittman t 3917 7840 [email protected]

Course coordinator

Dr S H Li

AWM/ SHL 8.1.15





GEOS 8209 Climate Change and Society

Objective

To help students learn how to explain and critically assess the science related to climate

change. In this course we will mainly read the IPCC AR4 WG1: The Physical Science

Basis report. A comprehensive view of the current great debate on anthropogenic global

warming is presented. The course is designed for students with a background outside the

earth sciences.

Course schedule Basics: Introduction to the Global Warming Theory

Changes in human and natural drivers of climate

Global carbon cycle: present and past

Other natural and anthropogenic gases: sources and sinks

Observations of changes in climate: temperature

Observations of changes in climate: other variables

Understanding and attributing climate change

Projections of future changes in climate/ robust findings/key uncertainties

Opposite view

Opposite view (continued)

The impacts of climate change

Climate change and society: Chinese history as an example


The course is taught mainly through 3-hour class lectures. Some of the classes use

problem-based learning. Learning is reinforced by regular assignments.

Assessment Methods

Achievement will be assessed by home assignments and practical (30%) and a 3-hour

written examination (70%).

Grade Descriptors











GEOS8209

Course Text:

Textbook: John Houghton, Global Warming, The Complete Briefing, Third Edition

(Cambridge University Press, 2004).

Website:http://www.ipcc.ch/publications_and_data/publications_ipcc_fourth_assessment_repor

t_wg1_report_the_physical_science_basis.htm.

Learning outcomes

1. Know human and natural drivers of climate change,

2. Recognize the history of Earth’s climate change over the past millennia

3. Understand the controversy in the study of global warming

4. Form evidence-based arguments on global warming.

Coordinator and teacher: Dr Zhonghui Liu ([email protected])

AWM/ZHL 26.6.14

http://www.ipcc.ch/publications_and_data/publications_ipcc_fourth_assessment_report_wg1_report_the_physical_science_basis.htm

http://www.ipcc.ch/publications_and_data/publications_ipcc_fourth_assessment_report_wg1_report_the_physical_science_basis.htm


Documents

Course Descriptions GEOS7004 Earth Science and Environmental … Course Outlines.pdf · 2015-08-13 · Course Descriptions – GEOS7004 Earth Science and Environmental Management