Field Skills and Project Planning for Independent Geological Mapping project

Description

This module prepares students for independent project work in the summer of year 2. The structure of the module is based around two residential field trips and preparation of a project plan. The principal aims of the module are to complete training in (1) advanced field technical and geological skills, (2) field safety and hazard and risk assessment, (3) research ethics and field conduct and (4) to prepare a detailed project plan that includes background research and field campaign logistics.

The first residential trip is to Inchnadamph, NW Scotland where training focuses on field mapping and provides opportunity to practice and gain experience in independent field mapping. Attention during term is then on the independent mapping project and a series of workshops and lectures deliver instructions and advice on researching and planning for this. This also includes selection of mapping areas and tutorials with mapping advisors. The second field trip is to SW England where the focus is on data collection and analysis including structural, petrological and sedimentological oriented data collection and analyses.

Assessment

Maps, cross sections and notebook
Data analysis exercises and notebook
Mapping project plan

Compulsory components (students need to complete these elements in order to be permitted to carry out independent fieldwork):

First aid course and related MCQ
signed HRA
signed Ethics self-assessment