The conduct of coastal geomorphological research in large part consists of the identifications of temporal and spatial variations in natural processes and the additional modification by cultural manipulation on the responses to these processes. Importantly, this approach supplants the common concept of a simple/single equilibrium developmental response with an approach which is directed toward a more flexible dynamic model. There are two major natural factors drive in the variable developmental response to the ambient processes in the coastal zone:
- the temporal/spatial variation in sediment delivery and availability, and
- the changing spatial position of the processes associated with a transgressing or regressing sea level.
In addition, the recent centuries have witnessed an increasing interruption and interference with both processes and sediment as humans intervene and modify the spatial/temporal associations.
Conceptually, aspects of the broadened scope of coastal geomorphological inquiry have been directed toward an increased understanding of the varying sediment supply and changing sea-level conditions at the coast and this has led to a bit more catastrophism in the evolving paradigm as it incorporates a multiple scalar approach to landscape evolution and includes an acceptance that natural conditions are variable and that human interaction with the natural system may lead to development of yet another assemblage of landform responses.