| CODE | GSC2500 | ||||||||||||
| TITLE | Field Skills in Geosciences | ||||||||||||
| UM LEVEL | 02 - Years 2, 3 in Modular Undergraduate Course | ||||||||||||
| MQF LEVEL | 5 | ||||||||||||
| ECTS CREDITS | 6 | ||||||||||||
| DEPARTMENT | Geosciences | ||||||||||||
| DESCRIPTION | This study-unit introduces students to the fundamental field skills required in Geosciences. By combining lectures with small-scale fieldwork activities, the study-unit provides students with the essential knowledge and techniques needed to carry out successful field surveys and data collection. The lectures will focus on key principles of fieldwork, such as survey planning, defining sampling transects, and understanding the rationale behind specific procedures. Practical sessions will reinforce these theoretical concepts through hands-on demonstrations. Students will gain experience using various field instruments, accurately recording and logging measurements, and downloading data for analysis. These practical sessions emphasise on the methodology rather than the quality of the data collected, ensuring that students become proficient in field techniques and the operation of equipment. Additionally, this study unit will highlight the importance of teamwork and safety in field environments. The topics covered are essential for students pursuing careers in geology, environmental science, and related fields, where field skills are critical for real-world applications. Study-Unit Aims: This study-unit aims to develop the ability of the students to accurately observe features, record observations, and create maps that represent spatial relationships in the field. This will help students understand how to translate field data into meaningful visual representations, such as geological maps and cross-sections. It will also teach students the principles and techniques involved in collecting samples from the field, and measuring key geological parameters such as rock types, soil composition, and environmental conditions. This will include defining sampling transects and using appropriate methods to ensure the reliability and accuracy of the data collected. Students will also be introduced to the use of various field instruments, including GPS devices, compasses, clinometers, and environmental sensors. Participants will learn how to operate these instruments, record data effectively, and ensure data integrity through proper calibration and handling. The focus will be on building the knowledge to conduct surveys in a systematic and effective manner, ensuring that data is accurately recorded and ready for further analysis. Through these aims, the study-unit prepares students for more advanced practical work in subsequent years and equips them with the fundamental skills needed for successful careers. Learning Outcomes: 1. Knowledge & Understanding: By the end of the study-unit the student will be able to: - Discuss observation and mapping techniques; - Describe the principles of sampling and measurements; - Identify and operate a variety of field instruments; - Establish survey planning and data collection procedures; - Express knowledge of fieldwork safety and teamwork. 2. Skills: By the end of the study-unit the student will be able to: - Operate various instruments; - Interpret data accurately, ensuring data integrity during fieldwork; - Research field surveys methods, determine sampling transects, and select appropriate methods for data collection; - Conduct basic surveys using appropriate surveying techniques, ensuring a systematic and accurate approach; - Operate a variety of field instruments and explain their role in geoscientific work; - Demonstrate ability to data from instruments for further analysis; - Practise and follow safety protocols; - Operate protective equipment and adhere to safe working practices during field surveys; - Operate effectively in teams. Main Text/s and any supplementary readings: Main Texts: - Thomas, P.J.E., 2006. Methods of environmental data analysis. Oxford: Oxford University Press. - Ogaja, C., 2013. Principles of geospatial surveying. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press. - Carter, N. (ed.), 2012. The essential field guide to environmental studies. London: Routledge. Supplementary Readings: - Manly, S., 2008. Statistical methods in the environmental sciences. New York: Springer. - Bigg, G.R., 1996. Oceanographic instrumentation and data processing. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. - Salvanes, A.G.V., Devine, J., Jensen, K., Hestetun, J., Sj酶tun, K. and Glenner, H., 2018. Marine Ecological Field Methods. West Sussex: John Wiley & Sons Ltd. - Storch H von, Zwiers FW., 1999. Statistical Analysis in Climate Research. Cambridge University Press. |
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| STUDY-UNIT TYPE | Lecture and Fieldwork | ||||||||||||
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The University makes every effort to ensure that the published Courses Plans, Programmes of Study and Study-Unit information are complete and up-to-date at the time of publication. The University reserves the right to make changes in case errors are detected after publication.
The availability of optional units may be subject to timetabling constraints. Units not attracting a sufficient number of registrations may be withdrawn without notice. It should be noted that all the information in the description above applies to study-units available during the academic year 2025/6. It may be subject to change in subsequent years. |
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