Structural Geology and GIS

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Have an enhanced ability to visualise three-dimensional structures
• Understand the concepts of stress, strain, deformation in shear zones and the use of bedding, cleavage and way-up information in structural analysis.
• Be able to classify and understand fractures, fault rocks, rock fabrics, folds and associated processes.
• Be confident presenting and manipulating data using the stereographic projection
• Be aware of the principal features of compressional, strike-slip and extensional tectonic systems.
• Be able to plot, and interpret, Earth Science data and present the results in an organised and concise fashion
• Understand brittle and ductile deformation processes
• Appreciate the effect of variables (e.g., temperature, pressure, fluids, time) on rock rheology
• Be able to undertake an investigative field study and perform data analysis and interpretation.
• Be able to select and apply appropriate data manipulation and visualisation methods using Geographical Information Systems (GIS).

Transferable and Generic Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• View and edit data using GIS.
• Development of 3D perception
• Time management of project
• Manipulation of data using spread sheets
• Presentation of scientific results
• Assessment of data quality

Subject Specific Practical Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Be able to undertake Earth science applications of GIS.
• Be able to present and manipulate data, e.g. using stereographic projection, GIS
• Have practical experience of geological structures and determining tectonic context

Structural Geology

Lectures will provide an account of geological structures from the scale of plate tectonics to the sub-microscopic, emphasising basic mechanical and tectonic principles as well as geometrical description. Laboratory exercises are designed to introduce widely used structural applications such as the presentation and manipulation of data using stereographic projections, construction of balanced cross-sections and techniques of structural mapping.

GIS

The principal software platform will be ArcGIS incorporating topographic, geological and other data. You will learn how to integrate various types of map information, point data and other attributes.

Teaching and learning methods

Structural Geology

Formal Lectures (12 x 45 minute lectures): Will provide an introduction to the theory underlying structural geology and tectonics. The lectures provide the material required for a robust understanding of the brittle and ductile behaviour of rocks in the Earth's crust and of plate tectonic processes at a variety of scales. Each lecture will systematically cover the main concepts and topics by the use of PowerPoint presentations, supported by illustrated handout materials. The lecturers' own experience in these fields is incorporated where possible. Appropriate references to parts of course textbooks and introductory journal references are provided at each lecture.

Practical sessions (5 x 3hr practicals; 15 hours): Exemplify the theory covered during formal lectures and allow you to develop appropriate practical skills in structural data analysis.

Support: Support during practicals and lectures provided by staff and postgraduate demonstrators. Further support is available through Blackboard, from the coordinator and other teaching staff by arrangement.

GIS: Formal lectures (2 x 1hr = 2hr) and Practical classes (3 x 3hr and 2 x 2hr = 13hr). Support will be available when practical classes run:

1.Hands-on teaching in computer workstations by experienced staff and demonstrators.

2.Independent learning using GIS software.

A wide range of support can be provided for those students who have further or specific learning and teaching needs

Summative

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