This module develops students’ skills in Earth Science fieldwork and research methods. The tutorial and campus based components of the module develop students’ ability to research scientific literature and write a scientific report, around the framework of researching a topic relevant to the fieldwork they undertake during the semester. The field component of the module includes campus based field training and a residential field course, helping students develop high quality field skills. These relate to the field identification of rock types; the distinction and recognition of adjacent rock units and their relationships; the quantitative measurement of bedding structures, and understanding the significance of their relationships; sedimentary and structural logging methods; an introduction to 1:10,000 geological and geomorphological mapping.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students should be able to:
Research Earth Sciences topics, find relevant journal papers using a variety of methods, including elibrary and online databases such as Web of Science;
Understand the concept and definition of a scientific hypotheses and how to form them;
Critically evaluate sources of information and structure a reasoned argument;
Complete a critical review in written (essay) form;
To recognise and identify a variety of common rocks;
To recognise and interpret various kinds of geological contact;
To systematically record geological data in the field, using both notes and field sketches;
To work effectively in the field, with your own safety and that of your colleagues in mind;
To produce high quality field notes and reports based on personal observations and their interpretation;
To appreciate aspects of the applied geology of an area.
Assessment
33742-01 : Field Trip Poster : Coursework (40%)
33742-02 : Final Report : Coursework (60%)
Assessment Methods & Exceptions
Assessment:
2000 word tutorial essay (60%);
Post-field trip reports (2 pages in total; 40%).
Reassessment:
2000 word tutorial essay (60%);
Post-field trip reports (2 pages in total; 40%)