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Unit of study_

GEOS3008: Field Geology in the Digital Age

Understanding the processes by which the Earth is shaped, rock systems evolve, and mineral resources are formed, is key to address the challenges of sustainable development (cf. UN Sustainable Goals 1, 2, 7, 8, 12). The geological record accessible at the Earth's surface provides detailed insights into Earth's processes and past geological crises that have punctuated the long Earth's history. GEOS3008 offers a unique experience through field-based immersive learning, and the opportunity to develop a flair for 3-dimensional geological thinking. In this unit of study, you will collect data in the field to understand not only the geology hidden underneath the Earth's surface, but also the geology that once was above it and now lost through erosion. You will learn to decode the temperature, pressure and strain history of metamorphic rocks. You will sharpen your problem-solving skills by combining and applying knowledge from various geoscience subdisciplines to decode rock systems (e.g., sedimentary, igneous, metamorphic). You will learn to identify and address in the field geological problems by designing and implementing a plan of field data collection, analysis and interpretation to test multiple hypotheses. Through exposure to field-based investigations, you will learn to integrate the uncertainties inherent in natural studies, and you will become confident in exploring complex Earth systems. Moving to the future of field geology, you will use digital technology to collect and analyse geological data, gaining appreciation of open data sharing and cybertechnology in Earth Sciences. You will learn to synthesize field observations into four-dimensional models that describe the geological evolution of an area.

Code GEOS3008
Academic unit Geosciences Academic Operations
Credit points 6
Prerequisites:
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GEOS2124 or GEOS2924
Corequisites:
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None
Prohibitions:
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GEOL3103 or GEOS3908

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

  • LO1. Develop an advanced knowledge of geological mapping and field analysis techniques, acquiring skills transferable to a wide range of geological systems.
  • LO2. Identify geological problems and develop problem-solving skills in the field environment: Address geological problems by designing and implementing a plan of data collection, analysis and interpretation that acknowledges assumptions, limitations, and uncertainty.
  • LO3. Use geological digital data systems to collect and analyse qualitative and quantitative geological information in the field.
  • LO4. Combine modern structural practice with understanding of rock systems (e.g., sedimentary, igneous, metamorphic).
  • LO5. Use field data and potentially synthesize with additional information (e.g., geophysical, geochronological, geochemical, petrological, microstructural data) to unravel complex geological and tectonic processes in space and time.
  • LO6. Present geological observations and interpretations in a professional manner in the form of succinct reports.
  • LO7. Develop and practice fieldwork, health, and safety protocols.
  • LO8. Develop an understanding and appreciation of diversity in problem-solving teams, to actively and effectively collaborate in racially, ethnically, culturally, and gender diverse groups.