Module GEOL1051: Field Studies

Department: Earth Sciences

GEOL1051: Field Studies

Prerequisites

Corequisites

• GEOL1021 Earth Materials OR GEOL1161 Environment and Sustainability

Excluded Combination of Modules

Aims

• To introduce techniques for the field/virtual description and interpretation of natural geological features.
• To introduce a range of mapping/field skills, observation and recording methods necessary for geoscience fieldwork and virtual imagery.
• Processing of data acquired during field work

Content

• Field and virtual methods and principles.
• Mapping of solid rock, geomorphology mapping and Quaternary deposits.
• Geological/environmental field-craft and data collection.
• Interpretation of geological maps, Topography and outcrop patterns.
• Stereographic projections of geological structures
• Contacts: conformable, unconformable, tectonic, intrusive, geological columns and cross-sections.
• Introduction and demonstration of geographical information systems (GIS).
• Aerial photographs.
• Field safety.
• Geological/environmental field skills. Choose from one day trips or virtual field classes. This will include a mix of one-day trips. Note field classes are available for virtual study.
• 3 dimensional interpretation of geological maps and structures.

Learning Outcomes

• On completion of this module, students will be able to understand how geoscience data is represented on maps, visualise and understand how maps relate to the natural environment and be aware of problems and limitations associated with such representations, interpret common associations of rocks, structures and geomorphological features in the field.
• Will have acquired subject knowledge and understanding in geological principles, terms, definitions and classifications.
• Will have acquired subject knowledge and understanding in the structure, composition and history of the Earth/geological timescales.
• Appreciation of the 3 dimensional nature of geology.
• Familiarity with Earth Science literature and it's format.

• Will have acquired intellectual and practical skills necessary to plan, conduct and report on mix of laboratory, computer and field projects.
• Will have acquired intellectual and practical skills in order to apply geological principles and methodologies to the solution of familiar and unfamiliar problems.
• Will have acquired intellectual and practical skills to observe, record accurately and account for geological features in the laboratory and in the field.
• Will have acquired intellectual and practical skills to synthesise information/data from a variety of sources.
• Will have acquired intellectual and practical skills to analyse, evaluate/interpret geological/environmental data.
• Cross-section construction and geological map interpretation.
• Writing skills.

• Receive and respond to a variety of information sources.
• Communicate effectively to a variety of audiences in written, verbal and graphical forms.
• Prepare, process, interpret and present data using appropriate qualitative and quantitative techniques and software packages.
• Identify individual and collective goals and responsibilities.
• 3 dimensional interpretation of Earth structures.

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

• The module is delivered through a series of two-hour practical slots and one day field trips (virtual study also available), supported by handouts and directed reading.
• This method is preferred as it provides "hands on" learning and experience of acquiring practical fieldwork skills.
• Summative assessment is made up of in-class assessments and field (or virtual) work performance assessments through which students can demonstrate practical skills.
• Formative assessment is provided weekly during the practical sessions together with a formative class test.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

1) Continual assessment of practical assignments; 2) Class test 3)

■ Students who do not attend monitored activities shown under Teaching Methods and Learning Hours, or who fail to complete the summative or formative assessment(s) specified above, may be subject to the Academic Progress procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University.