Field Course in Geological Mapping

Objectives:
The creation, analysis and interpretation of geological maps are important skills in geology. Geological maps present the distribution of lithologic units and geological structures and their geometric relationships in a given area. The main course objective is to learn geological mapping techniques in an area of broad lithological and structural diversity, to create a geological map and to interpret and discuss the results in a regional tectonic context. The field area is on Elba Island, Italy, within the northern Apennine Orogen, where a wide range of rock types are tectonically closely juxtaposed, including an ophiolite complex, a variety of sedimentary, metamorphic and igneous rocks as well as ore mineralisations. The Apennines of Elba Island allow unique insights into the upper crustal architecture of a young orogen and therefore provide a different perspective of what we can investigate in the deeply eroded Caledonian Orogen of Norway.

Content:
The course comprises two parts. The actual field mapping is preceded by a series of seminars, in which the course participant study geodynamic aspects of the Mediterranean region, the Apennine Orogen and the geology of Elba Island. The seminars also include the macro- and microscopic study of the different rock types to be found during mapping. The mapping on Elba Island takes place for two weeks in late April to early May, during which course participants will produce a geologic map of a small area. The mapping results are documented and discussed in a comprehensive field report together with the geological map and geological cross-sections.

Knowledge
Students

• know how to produce the geologic and tectonic history of a geologic map
• have a comprehensive understanding of the geodynamic evolution of the Mediterranean region since the Palaeozoic
• comprehend the tectonic evolution of the Apennines and Elba Island
• know aspects of accretionary orogens, ophiolite obduction and the formation of the Tyrrhenian Sea

Skills
Students

• can accurately locate in the field, using topographic maps, pacing and compass
• are familiar with standard map symbols and map elements including scale and legend
• can take and document structural field data and field observations
• can apply outcrop mapping techniques and create a geological map
• can construct geological cross-sections and can develop a geological history thereof

General competance
Students

• know how to plan and conduct a geologic field campaign
• have developed team working and self-evaluation skills and the ability to write a comprehensive common report