Historical Geology and Palaeontology

The course gives an overview of the development of the Earth and evolution of life forms, from the Precambrian to the present. Introduction to principles of stratigraphy. The historical part introduces changes on the earth surface, such as the palaeogeographical distribution of the continents and palaeoclimate. In the palaeontology part there is an overview of the history of animal and plant evolution with focus on the systematics of the main fossil groups and their stratigraphical distribution.

After successful completion of the course, students ought to be able to recognise and interpret the main fossil groups at a basic level; know the palaeogeography of the earth surface throughout geological history; use research methods and stratigraphic principles at a basic level to interpret geological history.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS Students will be able to understand the history of the Earth and its life. They will also be capable of using nomenclature for naming of geological units. Students will learn basic skills about different fossil groups and their use in geological interpretation

Literature study, compulsory exercises. Compulsory fieldtrip if that can be organised (information will be given at the start of the semester).