Geological Field Course in Western Norway

Objectives

The geology of Western Norway is exceptionally beautiful and well exposed. The Bergen Arc System, a ca. 100 kilometers long arcuate structure formed during the Caledonian orogeny, allows one to study different units and aspects of the Norwegian geology, including the tectonic evolution of the Øygarden Complex (Baltica basement), the Minor Bergen Arc, the Blåmanen Nappe, The Lindås Nappe and the Major Bergen Arc. By applying basic geological mapping techniques, this course aims to familiarize the participant with the geology of Western Norway, its main rock types and structures, and tectonic evolution.

Content

The course comprises two parts: (1) Lectures and Reading and (2) Field work. The field work in the Bergen Arc System is preceded by lectures and reading that cover: (1) definitions, general aspects and structures of the rocks that will be observed in the field; (2) basic mapping techniques (description of outcrops, sketches, measuring and plotting); (3) regional geology and tectonic setting of Western Norway (Caledonian Orogeny) and; (4) guidelines for writing a comprehensive and objective geological report.

On completion of the course the student should have the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence:

Knowledge

The student

• will gain insight into the geologic history of Western Norway, with a focus on the Caledonian orogeny and the collapse of the Caledonian mountain range
• will be familiar with fundamental orogenic processes
• will obtain basic knowledge about field mapping of deformed/metamorphic rocks

Skills

The student

• will know different types of metamorphic rocks formed during the Caledonian orogeny
• will know how to recognize, describe and analyze deformation structures and sheared rocks
• will know how to measure foliations and lineations and present measurements in stereoplots
• will know the concept of kinematic indicators in sheared rocks

General competence

The student

• can apply basic field methods
• can distinguish between different types of metamorphic and deformed rocks
• can write a clear and objective report about the rocks and processes studied