PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY AND GEOMORPHOLOGY-2

This laboratory is an integral part of the Physical Geography and Geomorphology course and aims to develop practical skills in coastal geomorphological analysis and the drafting of a technical-scientific report.
Participants will work on a real-world case study, assessing the feasibility of a coastal infrastructure based on wave data and wave runup calculations, using Python for numerical analysis.
The laboratory includes an introductory module on the structure of a technical report, followed by practical exercises on essential tools such as QGIS for spatial data management and Python for data processing. To support the activities, video tutorials on Python, QGIS, and guidelines for writing a technical-scientific report will be provided.

Participants in the laboratory will develop skills in drafting a technical-scientific document, with a focus on:
• Researching and selecting reliable sources for geomorphological analysis.
• Structuring their work effectively, from data collection to result interpretation.
• Using appropriate technical language in geology and geomorphology.
• Presenting data and findings clearly and effectively through text, images, and graphics.
• Applying digital tools such as Python for data analysis and QGIS for spatial data management.

To successfully complete the laboratory, participants should have the foundational knowledge provided in the Physical Geography and Geomorphology course, particularly concerning coastal geomorphological processes and the analytical tools used in the field.

The laboratory provides practical tools for coastal geomorphological analysis and the drafting of a technical-scientific report. Activities will include:
• Structure of a technical-scientific document: organizing content, key sections, and writing standards.
• Research and citation of sources: methodologies for identifying and correctly citing data and scientific references.
• Approach to report writing: strategies for effective writing, focusing on clarity, precision, and coherence.
• Digital tools for data analysis and visualization: use of QGIS for spatial data management, Python for numerical processing, Excel for tabular analysis, and Google Earth Pro for geospatial visualization and interpretation.
• Application to a real case study: assessing the feasibility of a coastal infrastructure by analyzing wave data and calculating wave runup.

• Lectures provided by the instructor, including supporting materials and slides available after each session.
• Video tutorials introducing Python, QGIS, and the structure of a technical-scientific report.
• Group work sessions, where participants will apply acquired knowledge, discuss analytical methodologies, and refine their technical report writing.

Learning will be assessed based on the submission of a technical-scientific report in PDF format, which will be evaluated by the instructor.
The assessment will consider:
• Completeness and accuracy of the coastal geomorphological analysis.
• Appropriate use of digital tools such as Python and QGIS for data processing.
• Clarity of exposition, document structure, and correct use of technical-scientific language.
• Quality and relevance of graphs, tables, and images supporting the analysis.
The laboratory grade will contribute 1/3 of the final exam score.
The report will be discussed in class before the final evaluation.

not present

The evaluation of the technical-scientific report will be based on the following criteria:
• 18-22: the report is acceptable but presents superficial analyses and a limited application of the required methodologies. The technical language is imprecise, with errors in terminology. Images, graphs, and tables are present but unclear or poorly explained. The use of Python and QGIS is partial or contains inaccuracies that compromise the reliability of the results.
• 23-26: the report is well-structured and demonstrates a fair understanding of the geomorphological problem. Data analysis is correct but not always in-depth. The technical language is generally appropriate, though with some inaccuracies. Images and graphs support the analysis but could be improved in quality or interpretation. The use of Python and QGIS is correct but has room for improvement.
• 27-30: the report is well-structured and demonstrates good to excellent analytical skills. The geomorphological interpretation is strong and supported by accurate data and scientific references. The technical language is precise and appropriate. Images, graphs, and tables are clear, well-executed, and properly explained. The use of Python and QGIS is accurate and relevant.
• Honors: the report is outstanding, featuring an in-depth and critical geomorphological analysis. The technical language is precise and used with expertise. The images and graphs are of high quality, providing essential support for data interpretation. The use of Python and QGIS is flawless, demonstrating autonomy and problem-solving skills in data analysis.
Important: Reports with serious conceptual gaps, incorrect analyses, or missing fundamental elements (e.g., failure to interpret data, significant errors in Python/QGIS usage, or inadequate document structure) will be considered insufficient (<18) and will not pass the laboratory.

The course adopts a practical approach that integrates classroom lectures, video tutorials, and hands-on laboratory activities.
• Classroom lectures: introduction to writing a technical-scientific report, focusing on document structure, source research and citation, and best practices in technical writing.
• Video tutorials: supporting materials for self-learning, including guides on using Python for data processing, QGIS for spatial data management and visualization, and a detailed guide for drafting a technical-scientific report.
• Hands-on laboratory activities: direct application of digital tools to a real-world case study, analyzing wave motion data and calculating wave runup to assess the feasibility of a coastal infrastructure.
• Independent and group work: participants will have the opportunity to work independently on their reports, with classroom discussions and peer feedback to refine their analysis and presentation of results.

This subject deals with topics related to the macro-area "Natural capital and environmental quality" and contributes to the achievement of one or more goals of U. N. Agenda for Sustainable Development