To introduce students to field geology and enable students to apply knowledge and understanding that they have developed previously in lab-based modules.
To train students in the techniques required to collect and record geological data, and to interpret such data.

(LO1) Competence in rock, fossil, and mineral identification, and the identification and measurement of characteristic features of rock outcrops.

(LO2) Ability to complete hazard assessments of geological field localities based on topography, access, tide times, etc.

(LO3) Recording observations and interpretations in scientific notebook.

(LO4) Sedimentary analysis through the construction and interpretation of sedimentary logs

(LO5) Geometric analysis of geological structures through the use of stereonets

(LO6) Using geological field observations as a basis to interpret outcrop features in terms of geological processes and environments.

(LO7) Ability to locate oneself on a topographic map, with and without a compass, and ability to follow linear features.

(LO8) Ability to record lithological information and structural measurements on a map and associated field notebook

(LO9) Ability to construct cross section and generalised vertical section in the field.

(LO10) Ability to develop lithostratigraphy from lithology, geometry and younging evidence

(LO11) Ability to summarise geological history of a field area, derived from synthesis of multiple days of field observations and interpretations.

(S1) Problem solving skills developed in field exercises where students need to gather appropriate data to interpret geological processes and environments.

(S2) Teamwork - working in groups during field exercises

(S3) Ethical awareness - understanding need to respect natural environment and minimise impact

(S4) Adaptability - understanding need to carry out fieldwork appropriate to weather and tidal conditions and adapt accordingly

(S5) Organisational skills - organisation and maintenance of own field equipment including PPE

(S6) Time management - students need to meet deadlines for transportation, completion of exercises in the field and after fieldwork.

Fieldwork will comprise 12 local field days across Semesters 1 and 2. The exact schedule is dependent on tides and other logistical constraints.

Skills to be covered include:
maintaining a geological field notebook
constructing field diagrams
descriptions and identification of a range of rock types
sedimentary logging
facies analysis and construction of palaeoenvironmental models
stratigraphy
description and interpretation of folds and faults
use of stereonets in the field
creation of geological maps, cross sections and generalized vertical sections
interpretation of geological history

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Teaching Method 1 - Fieldwork
Description: 12 days of practical field work based around a series of thematic exercises
Notes: Fieldwork is supported by academic staff and postgraduate student demonstrators

Teaching Method 2 - Pre-recorded online lectures. Lectures take place before the field days: engagement with this material is an essential preparation.
Notes: Pre-fieldclass lectures provide a framework for independent work. The lectures cover (1) logistics; (2) field safety and hazard assessment; (3) how the lab-based modules contribute to an understanding and the construction of a geological history of the field area.

Teaching Method 3 - online Q&A sessions
Notes: These will run prior to field days to cover specific logistics, field safety and hazard assessment, and after field days to provide support for assessed work.