Key Skills and Fieldwork for Geologists

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Quantitatively analyse and interpret collected geological data using stereonet plotting.
• Manipulate a set of data on a spreadsheet including: use of formulae to obtain additional information from the original database and use of graphics to present data.
• Be familiar with a wide range of sedimentary, volcanic, igneous and metamorphic rock types and morphologies and the appearance of volcanogenic mineralisation.
• Use a compass-clinometer with familiarity to measure geological structures.
• Accurately locate yourself in the field, and make essential field observations and measurements, including recognition of major rock types and geological structures and relationships between geology and landscape.
• Safely and systematically collect, analyse, interpret and present field data in the form of geological maps, sedimentary logs and geological cross-sections produced from field data. Accurately record field observations in a notebook, as notes, sketches or tabulated data.
• Assess environmental impact of human activities (e.g. mining, landfills etc.).

Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Spreadsheets
• Field observations and measurements
• Library retrieval
• Data handling

Transferable and Generic Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Project management
• Report writing
• Time management
• Team working
• Presentation skills

The field courses will develop skills in field observations, measurements, and recognition of major rock types and structures. An advanced understanding of the techniques and methodology of geological fieldwork and training in geological mapping will be provided by systematic coverage of the principles of geological fieldwork, particularly observing and recording data, geological mapping, the application of knowledge of modern environments and processes to geological problems and development of an understanding of how the geology of the field area is applicable to a wider region. Identify and characterise environmental impacts from e.g. mining activities. Appraisal of the geology of a selected area.

Teaching and learning methods

Ten-day residential field course, usually in Spain (or UK alternative), will develop the student's observation and mapping skills, necessary to complete a comprehensive geological map, cross-section, stratigraphic column and detailed notes in field notebooks. Fieldwork will include:- 5 days of staff-led exploration of the sedimentary basin fill and the basement rocks and mineralisation, and the environmental impact of mining - 0.5 days of introduction to the independent mapping area - 3.5 days of independent mapping of sedimentary rocks - 1 day of map interpretations and inking in.

Seven-day residential advanced field mapping course in Anglesey (Wales) will further develop the student’s observation, data recording and interpretation skills. This course will provide experience of mapping complex structures in metamorphic rocks and assessing impacts on the environment by past human activities.

Extensive study-guide handout is provided with background information about the field areas. Students are provided with a 3-D (red-green) topographic map to help orientation in the field, relating to remote-sensing skills taught previously.

Support: is provided by staff and postgraduate demonstrators, including formative feedback during the fieldwork. A wide range of support is available for those students who have further or specific learning and teaching needs

Assessment strategy

Spain fieldtrip (60%) and Anglesey field course (40%). Field notebooks, sedimentary logs, geological map and cross-sections form the basis of the assessment and test Learning Outcomes 1-7. Field notebook: Notebooks are collected during the course and at the end, to train the student in the consistent and precise recording of geological and environmental field data. Feedback is provided during the course to improve the systematic and clear recording of data, observations, and field sketches. Tests Learning Outcomes 1 and 4. Sedimentary Log: Instruction is given in the field of how to construct a sedimentary log of channel structures. Geological Maps: Two geological maps are collected at the end of the multi-day mapping exercises. The field maps are assessed for the accuracy and completeness of geological field observations, the interpretative map is assessed for neatness and plausible interpretation of the field geology. Tests Learning Outcomes 5 to 7. Geological map, cross sections and field notebooks: Students are asked to hand in geological cross-sections and map obtained from their own field-observations.

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.