Course Details in 2026/27 Session

Module Title	LI Field Skills and Project Planning for Geological Field Research
School	School of Geog Earth & Env Sci
Department	Earth and Environ Sciences
Module Code	03 33767
Module Lead	Paul Anderson
Level	Intermediate Level
Credits	20
Semester	Semester 2
Pre-requisites
Co-requisites
Restrictions	None
Contact Hours	Lecture-13 hours Tutorial-4 hours Practical Classes and workshops-17 hours Fieldwork-64 hours Guided independent study-102 hours Total: 200 hours
Exclusions
Description	This module prepares students for independent project work in the summer of year 2. The structure of the module is based around a 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 key scientific targets and field campaign logistics. Planning for the independent geological field research project is provided through a series of workshops and lectures that deliver instructions and advice on researching and planning for this. This also includes selection of field areas and tutorials with mapping project advisors. The 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.
Learning Outcomes	By the end of the module students should be able to: Demonstrate that they are capable of carrying out an independent field mapping project; Collect detailed data sets in the field and demonstrate understanding of relevance and use of such data in developing a geological model; Make relevant ethical and health & safety considerations for a field study area; Understand good field conduct and responsible field practices; Will have completed a first aid for geological fieldwork course; Carry out research into the geological background of a proposed field/ study area; Identify scientific targets for study with proposed field area; Develop detailed logistical plan including transport, accommodation and budget; Utilise relevant map resources pertaining to an area for field study.
Assessment
Assessment Methods & Exceptions	Assessment: Data collection and analysis exercises around SW England trip (40%); Field Research project plan 2500 words (60%); Compulsory components (students need to complete these elements in order to be permitted to carry out independent fieldwork): 1) First aid course and related MCQ; 2) signed HRA; 3) signed Ethics self-assessment. If any of these components are not completed marks for the module will be withheld and the mapping project cannot proceed. This will result in withdrawal from the course or deferral of year 3. Reassessment: Replacement literature- and desk-based exercises based on SW England field exercises (40%); Resubmission of the project plan (60%).
Other
Reading List