Ore Geology and Gemmology

Description

This module examines the geology, economics and ethics of mineral and resource exploration.

The major focus is on the geology of ore deposits, concentrating primarily on their formation by rooting the various ore forming processes back into the relevant geological processes.

The module also provides context and uses certain principals of the study of gemmology to consider economics aspects as well as ethical considerations, both human and environmental.

The first half of the module is class taught and covers the essential theory behind ore geology and gemmology through lectures and practical exercises.

The second half centres on a mock inquiry which involves in-depth research into a particular case study. Students are divided into different special interest groups that capture the breadth of the class (e.g. Environmental consultants made up from Environmental Geology and Mineral exploration company made up from Geology).

The case study is presented in the form of a mock inquiry where each group presents their case according the remit of that particular exercise.

Case studies focus on examples that could include an application to open a mine in a sensitive area, or for plans to remediate and develop an old mine site, or whether funding should be provided for mining activity in a developing country with social and economic problems.

Delivery

  • 10 hours of lectures
  • 20 (10 x 2 hour) practical classes
  • An afternoon for the public enquiry style presentationsCouple of tutorials leading up to the presentations

Assessment

Coursework:

  • Inquiry group presentation (15%)
  • 2000 word report based on inquiry case study (individual) (35%)
  • 1.5 hour exam (50%) with two sections. Section A will cover the practical exercises with short answer questions, and section B will cover the theory with essay style questions

Formative feedback:

  • Timetabled preparation of report with staff/demonstrators available
  • Formative feedback in class while working on practical exercises, plus formative feedback on one submitted exercise