Module Identifier GG30220  
Module Title MODELLING IN FLUVIAL GEOMORPHOLOGY  
Academic Year 2001/2002  
Co-ordinator Dr Tom Coulthard  
Semester Semester 1  
Pre-Requisite GG22510  
Course delivery Lecture   22 Hours 11 x 2 hours  
  Practicals / Field Days   12 Hours 6 x 2 hours  
Assessment Course work   Web page construction.   10%  
  Essay   3500 word assessed essay.   40%  
  Exam   2 Hours Written exam, 2 essays from a choice of 4.   50%  
  Resit assessment   Resubmission of failed CA component. Resit failed examination.    

Learning outcomes


On completion of this module students should be able to:


1. Apply where appropriate multi dimensional flow models.
2. Demonstrate knowledge of the limitations of different modelling approaches.
3. Evaluate and interpret a river profile model.
4. Apply landscape evolution models.
5. Use of Spreadsheets to apply simple numerical models to fluvial systems.
6. Communicate results ideas and concepts via the WWW.

Objectives


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


1. Demonstrate an understanding of fluvial models and their application to real systems.
2. Appreciate the complexity and uncertainty of modelling, and be fully aware of the limitations and difficulties.

Module Aims


The aim of this module is to review in detail the number of fluvial modelling schemes available today and assess their suitability, accuracy and effectiveness over a range of spatial and temporal scales .

Module Outline (Lecture Themes)


The course covers the wide range of techniques and philosophies used to simulate the complex interactions within the fluvial system. Each methodology is reviewed systematically with discussion of the relative merits and disadvantages. Emphasis is placed upon the student to develop their own opinions regarding the suitability and effectiveness of these methods. Whilst exact techniques and formulae will be reviewed, the content of the course is not heavily mathematical, its main aims being to discuss theory, application and reasoning.


Modelling methodologies, eg. Process based, statistical, black box.


Hydraulic modelling 1. One and two dimensional flow modelling


Hydraulic modelling 2. Three dimensional flow modelling and limitations.


Sediment transport simulation


Long profile evolution


Meander models


Landscape evolution models


The cellular automaton


Non linear processes: Chaos and self organised criticality.


Neural networks and AI


Model validation


Synthesis: Future directions for fluvial modelling


Many items discussed in the 2nd year fluvial geomorphology course will be integrated and built upon including process landform association, equilibrium's and thresholds. Extra emphasis is placed upon retaining models within context and the importance of rigorous validation and calibration.