OC4210 Littoral Field Studies

Employs the scientific method for studying nearshore and wave processes using field observations in littoral battlespace environments. Monterey Bay, CA will be used as a natural laboratory for studying a plethora of littoral related topics. Students will design a small nearshore field experiment or set of experiments, deploy state-of-the-art instrumentation, and analyze data to test relevant nearshore hypotheses. Students will write a mini-proposal with budget focused on their scientific hypothesis, experiment, and analysis, and write a scientific final report. Introductions and limitations of instrumentation will be discussed and integrated into the field design, which will include deployment schemes and subsequent analyses. Data quality control and analysis techniques will be described and implemented. In particular, tidal harmonic analysis will be introduced and performed. The course is divided into 1) in-class discussions (instrumentation, deployment schemes, and data analysis techniques), and 2) field exercises that require student participation in performing the proposed small experiments. There is a high probability that students will get wet, but it is not a requirement.

Prerequisite

OC3140; OC3150; Matlab familiarity; or consent of instructor

Lecture Hours

Lab Hours

Course Learning Outcomes

Apply the Scientific Method: Formulate hypotheses related to nearshore and wave processes, design experiments to test them, and analyze field data to draw conclusions.
Design and Conduct Field Experiments: Develop and execute a small-scale nearshore field experiment using state-of-the-art instruments, including planning deployment strategies and ensuring proper data collection.
Operate and Understand Scientific Instruments: Gain hands-on experience with a variety of oceanographic instruments (e.g., pressure sensors, acoustic Doppler current meters, GPS systems) and understand their capabilities and limitations in nearshore environments.
Analyze and Interpret Field Data: Apply techniques such as tidal harmonic analysis, data filtering, gap interpolation, and advanced statistical methods (e.g., regression, correlation, spectral analysis) to assess the quality and meaning of field data.
Present Scientific Findings: Develop and deliver scientific reports and presentations, using tools like contour plotting and timestacks, to effectively communicate research outcomes and hypothesis testing results.
Work in a Collaborative Field Environment: Participate in group-based field exercises, demonstrate teamwork in the setup and execution of field experiments, and contribute to the shared understanding of coastal dynamics.
Address Data Challenges: Recognize and address challenges in field data collection such as synchronization issues, memory management, battery life, and environmental factors.
Integrate Theoretical Knowledge with Practical Application: Connect in-class discussions on nearshore dynamics and instrumentation with real-world fieldwork, deepening the understanding of coastal processes.
Demonstrate Critical Thinking in Hypothesis Testing: Use data from experiments to test hypotheses, applying scientific reasoning and critical thinking skills to validate or refine the hypotheses.
Adapt to Field Conditions: Develop problem-solving skills to adapt experimental designs and data collection approaches based on environmental and logistical challenges in dynamic coastal settings.