GEOS 303 - Hawai’i: Hot Spot Geology

(4 credits)

In this course we will explore the geology, the culture, and the natural history of our island state, Hawaii. The Hawaiian Islands are a unique geologic and environmental laboratory secluded in the Pacific Ocean. The islands continue to form through hot spot volcanism and offer a glimpse at an actively building shield volcano complex. We will also explore how these islands devolve after active lava flows cease building land and give way to erosion. The islands are home to a Polynesian culture that was isolated from European influence until the late 1700s. During our geologic explorations we will intertwine lessons of and from this culture and see how Asians and Europeans have influenced it in more recent centuries. Prerequisite: 100-level introductory Geoscience course or instructor permission. Grade only. Offered alternate years (usually May term).

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