Excursions and Practicals in Geology
Undergraduate course
- ECTS credits
- 10
- Teaching semesters
- Spring
- Course code
- GEOV102
- Number of semesters
- 1
- Resources
- Schedule
Course description
Objectives and Content
Objectives:
The course aims to give a practical introduction to the subject of geology, based on the theoretical foundation included in the course GEOV101. The course provides an understanding of the earth as a complex system with elements, minerals, rocks as well as surface and deep processes that have acted to shape the earth and its landforms.
Content:
The course is comprised of practical exercises, an excursion (4 days) and a field course (4 days). The practical exercises cover the description and classification of most common minerals, rocks, fossils and sediments, as well as the reading/interpretation of topographic and geologic maps. The excursion treats subjects such sedimentary, magmatic and metamorphic geology, recording observations, the use of cross-cutting relations and inclusions to deduce a geologic history, glaciation- and climatic history and sea-level changes. The field course gives an introduction to practical collection of geological data and observations, field methods, use of fundamental geologic tools (compass, hammer, field notebook), interpretation of observations, as well as independent geologic fieldwork under supervision.
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge
The student can
- explain geologic observations and interpretation from practical exercises, excursions and field course
- explain key geological geological processes based on examples from practical exercises, excursions and field course
- define, classify and describe the most common minerals, rocks and sediments
- discuss the formation of the most common sediments and rocks
- discuss a geologic history based on geologic information (for example reconstruct a sequence of events based on a geologic map or field observations).
Skills
The student can
- interpret (read and explain) topographic and geologic maps
- construct geologic cross-sections based on geologic maps
- perform the collection of observations and data from outcrops
- measure the orientation of geological planes/surfaces and lineations by the use of a compass clinometer
- perform simple searches for relevant Earth Science literature, as well as cite sources correctly
General competence
The student can
- use a precise geological language to describe and discuss geological processes and events
- demonstrate the ability to function individually, in cooperation and ethically with others
- accomplish fieldwork in alignment with GEO/UiB health and safety regylations