Virtual Field Mapping Training

• Credit value: 15 credits at Level 5
• Convenors: Professor Gerald Roberts, Steve Hirons
• Assessment: interpretation of field geology (30%), use of Google Earth to identify and represent geology of two separate areas (35%) and an electronic portfolio containing a notebook, rock descriptions and geological maps (35%)

In this module you will be taught geological field techniques remotely. This will involve online exercises based on drawing and interpreting geological maps and remote sensing of geological features using Google Earth. Practical skills such as using a compass clinometer and GPS, describing rocks will also be taught.

Indicative syllabus

• Understanding structural geology and how to use Google Earth to identify and draw geological features
• Structural measurements using a compass-clinometer (dip and strike) to interpret geological structures
• Geological base maps (topographic or Google Earth)
• Cross-cutting relationships and geological boundaries in the field
• Field safety
• Regional geology

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• interpret geological maps and images of planetary surfaces
• undertake basic field geology measurements
• understand the key approaches to field geology.