Geological Mapping unit (KEA310)

Introduction

This unit provides students with an understanding of, and practical experience with, modern methods for geological mapping and field-based geological analysis. It includes a multi-day fieldtrip prior to the commencement of semester. The fieldtrip is either held in Broken Hill, New South Wales or at various locations in Tasmania. On the field trip, students collect data to produce fact and interpretative geological maps, cross sections and stereographic projections. Practical exercises during semester provide the opportunity for further analysis of data and rock samples collected in the mapping areas. Students synthesise the results of their field- and classroom-based investigations in a major report that both documents their findings, and places them in context, with a critical evaluation of the previous peer-reviewed literature on the geology of the mapping areas. Lectures and practicals cover key aspects of structural geology, metamorphic petrology and the application of geophysical techniques to geological mapping. The unit has a significant emphasis on the application of structural geology and metamorphic petrology to resolving the geological histories of complexly deformed and metamorphosed regions. In Broken Hill, students also gain experience in the acquisition of geophysical data to assist geological mapping (e.g. ground magnetic and radiometric surveys). This unit is one of six 300-level Earth Science units available to students in the Earth Sciences major, and is highly recommended for students who intend to become professional geoscientists.

Summary

Unit name	Geological Mapping
Unit code	KEA310
Credit points	12.5
College/School	Sciences and Engineering School of Natural Sciences
Discipline	Earth Sciences
Coordinator	Doctor Robert Scott
Available as an elective?	Yes
Delivered By	University of Tasmania
Level	Advanced

Availability

Specific information on 2027 unit availability will be available in August

Learning Outcomes

• Interpret geological maps using current scientific theories and techniques in structural geology, metamorphic petrology and geophysics
• Interpret the geological history of rocks and regions using various field- and laboratory-based methods
• Practice safe, responsible and respectful approaches to fieldwork for the production of geological maps
• Synthesise and interpret geological information on maps, cross-sections and stereographic projections
• Produce scientific reports adhering to conventions and professional practices of field geologists.

Fee Information

2027 fee information will be available in August.

Requisites

Prerequisites

KEA208 AND KEA209

Teaching

Teaching Pattern	5 – 8 day fieldtrip to Broken Hill, NSW or various locations in Tasmania held prior to the start of Semester;  14 x 1 hr lectures, 6 x 1 hr tutorials, 10 x 3 hr practical classes
Assessment	Assessment Task 3. Fieldtrip report (15%)|Assessment Task 1: Geological Mapping Exercise (25%)|Assessment Task 2. Practicals (30%)|Assessment Task 4. Final Exam (30%)
Timetable	View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable

Textbooks

Required	Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes.

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