In this introductory course, you will use interactive technologies to learn the science of how volcanoes work and the skills of a field volcanologist. You will explore the intersection of field volcanology and society, by looking into cultural perspectives of volcanoes, hazard mapping and communication using examples in Aotearoa New Zealand and drawing on Mātauranga Māori (Māori knowledge).

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This is course 1 of 2 for the Field Volcanology and Hazards Certificate.

In this introductory course, you will learn the science of how volcanoes work and the skills of a field volcanologist. We will use animation experiments and interviews to explore cultural perspectives of volcanoes, volcano types, field trip planning, hazard mapping and communication using examples in Aotearoa New Zealand and drawing on Mātauranga Māori (Māori knowledge). You will also get to explore rocks and landscapes while navigating around 360° videos and 3D landscapes and rock samples. You will gauge your learning all along the way, building knowledge and skills, and thinking about why volcanoes matter to you.

This course is part of the Field Volcanology and Hazards Professional Certificate.

What you'll learn

- Describe why volcanoes erupt.

- Use the field skills of a volcanologist to explain and describe volcanic rocks and landscapes.

- Explain why different volcano types have different eruption hazards.

- Appreciate the value of cross-cultural perspectives.

- Apply field data and historic eruption stories to discuss volcanic hazard implications in different locations in Aotearoa New Zealand.

- Use appropriate cultural consideration and apply communication skills to describe volcanic processes to diverse audiences.