James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2024

EA5404 - Earth's Climate: Past, Present and Future

Subject Description

This subject presents a comprehensive analysis of climate systems and change over timescales spanning deep geological time to the contemporary. Emphasis is placed on functioning of global climate, evidence for change and the tools used in the analysis of climate change and its effects on landscape, biosphere and society.

Learning Outcomes

• A knowledge of the history of climatic change from deep time to modern days
• An understanding of the processes underlying climate change at geological to contemporary timescales
• Knowledge of the tools employed to reconstruct climate change
• A critical appreciation of the importance of climate change to society and the environment
• An understanding of global climate and atmospheric processes

Subject Assessment

• Written > Examination - In class - (35%) - Individual
• Written > Test/Quiz 1 - (20%) - Individual
• Written > Problem task - (25%) - Group & Individual
• Written > Project report - (20%) - Individual

Note that minor variations might occur due to the continuous subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.

Inadmissible Subject Combinations:  EA2404

Availabilities