Practical Skills

Practical Skills Development

Identifying and Classifying Geological Materials

• Learn to identify geological specimens using characteristics like colour, texture, hardness, and other physical properties.
• Follow systematic classification of minerals and rocks based on their chemical composition and physical properties.
• Understand how to use standard geologic maps to identify different types of rocks and geological structures.
• Develop skills for fossil identification and understand the principles of fossil classification.

Planning and Implementing Geological Fieldwork

• Learn how to plan a geological field study by clearly defining aims and objectives, selecting suitable sites, and setting a practical timetable.
• Understand the importance of following meticulously devised procedures and record accurate and reliable geological observations during fieldwork.
• Practice the use of geological tools like rock hammers, chisels, clinometers and hand lenses.
• Familiarise yourself with the process of collecting various geological samples for laboratory analysis or research.

Processing and Interpreting Geological Data

• Understand how to manage, interpret, and analyse geological data gathered during fieldwork.
• Learn to create accurate geological sketches, cross-sectional diagrams, and geologic maps.
• Understand the basic principles of geostatistics and how to use them for interpreting geological data.
• Learn how to use software applications for managing geological data and for carrying out basic geostatistical analyses.

Presenting Geological Findings

• Understand how to compile, interpret and present geological data in a structured report that includes an introduction, method, results, discussion and conclusion.
• Develop effective communication skills for presenting geological findings to a diverse audience.
• Learn to use appropriate scientific conventions in written work, including the use of diagrams, tables, graphs, and references.

Ensuring Safety and Ethical Conduct in Geological Work

• Understand the importance of health and safety protocols during geological fieldwork and lab work.
• Learn about the various aspects of geological ethics, including the ethical collection and handling of specimens.
• Understand the impact of geological work on the environment and promote sustainable practices.
• Respect all laws and regulations related to geological work, ensure honest reporting of findings, and respect the intellectual property rights of others.