GEO 156 - Urban Geology Field Experience

1 Credits

Explore the urban geology of Seattle around Pioneer Square. We will exaine the history of Seattle regrades and sources of building stones used in historic buildings. We will discover how the geology of the area impacted the development of the city and continues to have important impacts today. The class includes a field trip and classroom instruction before the trip.

Course Note This field class requires navigating uneven footing in a working stone yard, walking about 2 miles around Seattle, and traversing 0.5 miles of stairs and rugged terrain in inconsistent lighting underground.
FeesRG SC

Quarters Typically Offered
Winter Weekend
Designed to Serve Students wishing a field experience in geology.
Active Date 20210403T10:08:57

Grading Basis Decimal Grade
Class Limit 20
Contact Hours: Lecture 5.5 Lab 11
Total Contact Hours 16.5
Degree Distributions:
AA

Science

Course Outline

What is urban geology?
Introduction to the properties and uses of dimensional stone.
Engineering history of Seattle and the regrades.
Architecture and stone.
Sculpture and use of stone on the Highline campus.
Field trip to Marenakos and Seattle.

Student Learning Outcomes
Describe how and why stone is chosen and worked in order to be used in architecture

Explain the properties of rocks used in urban settings

Communicate effectively the regrades and their impacts and implications on the local history of Seattle

Effectively articulate a selected research topic in urban geology in an oral presentation

Student will practice safety in geologic fieldwork by fully participating, following safety protocols, paying attention, and following directions of trip leader(s) at all times