Module GEOL3507: Geophysical Data Applications for the Workplace

Department: Earth Sciences

GEOL3507: Geophysical Data Applications for the Workplace

Prerequisites

• GEOL2327 Geophysical Data Applications OR GEOL2291 Geophysical Data Applications AND
• GEOL2081 Geophysical Methods for Geoscientists

Corequisites

• None

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None

Aims

• To apply concepts of small-to-large volume data set storage, handling, processing, visualisation and modelling to Earth surface and subsurface investigation, remote sensing and imaging, including appraisal of acquisition environmental impact and fitness-for-purpose.
• To provide skills-based training for the workplace in data processing, modelling and model presentation.
• To provide experience of various industry-standard data processing, analysis and visualisation software packages used within geophysics-based roles throughout the graduate jobs market place, enhancing student employability.

Content

• This module will be entirely IT-based and enable students to develop skills and software usage experience suitable for the demands of the geophysical, geotechnical and environmental workplace.
• It will provide students with an understanding of appropriate data processing methods and approaches, together with advanced skills in processing, manipulation, visualisation and interpretation of resulting processed datasets or models.
• Practical applications will be selected from, but not limited exclusively to, a wide range of topics, for example: satellite and near-surface remote sensing, subsurface resource exploration, climate change remediation, renewable energy, site survey design and approach, environmental impact appraisal, fitness-for-purpose source modelling, data modelling (forward and inversion), and model resolution appraisal.
• This module will also apply, expand and enhance understanding of small-to-large volume data set storage and handling, and file systems set within the Linux operating environment context.

Learning Outcomes

• By the end of the module students will be able to explain and apply data processing methodologies and approaches for all scales of Earth surface and subsurface observation and investigation.
• Will have acquired understanding of the techniques used to explore the Earth's surface and subsurface, e.g. for natural resources, sequestration or installation sites for renewable energy generation, and appraise their environmental impact.
• Will be able to process and model geophysical data using workplace approaches into a format suitable to convey an interpretation to others.
• Will have gained knowledge of industry-standard software packages used within geophysical roles in the workplace.

• Be able to select and apply appropriate data processing methods for geophysics-based Earth Science applications.
• Be able to operate effectively in a Linux-based environment.
• Be able to confidently use a variety of industry-standard geophysical software packages employed in the workplace.
• Be able to process, analyse and critically appraise geophysical data and communicate results in an organized and concise fashion.
• Will have acquired intellectual and practical skills necessary to plan, conduct and report on geophysical data acquisition.
• Will have acquired intellectual and practical skills to process, evaluate and interpret geophysical data in the workplace context.
• Will have acquired intellectual and practical skills necessary to appraise data and models acquired using geophysical approaches.
• Will have acquired intellectual and practical skills to innovatively and creatively solve familiar and unfamiliar problems.

• Ability to receive and respond to a variety of data and information sources.
• Ability to communicate effectively to a variety of audiences in written, verbal and visual forms.
• Ability to prepare, process, interpret and present data using appropriate qualitative and quantitative techniques and software packages.
• Ability to self-learn and time manage to meet targets, goals and deadlines.
• Have experience of industry-standard software packages.
• Have experience of workplace approaches and scenarios.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• Three-hour, weekly slot containing practical IT-based activities.
• The module will be assessed by a practical-based assignment, undertaken in-class under independent, examination conditions. It will draw together the skills, knowledge and learning undertaken throughout the module, and apply that to an Earth Science-based, real-world problem.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

Weekly - embedded within practical work and coupled with proactive feedback and self-learning mechanisms.

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University