coursemapLoading course
Research School of Earth Sciences · ANU College of Science and Medicine
This course teaches the concepts of structural geology and tectonics using examples from the unique geological history of the Australian plate and its boundaries. It develops a broad understanding of the processes that shape the continental crust and the forces that drive geological deformation. Basic principles of rock mechanics at scales ranging from a single crystal to continental-wide give a quantitative understanding of the connection between stress and deformation. The course connects geological mapping to geophysical imaging to provide the essential tools for understanding how, when and why structures form in the crust and how they relate to the formation of important mineral deposits, sedimentary basins, fault systems and their associated earthquakes. There are opportunities to undertake mapping exercises in the field or with digital geology tools, as well as an introduction to laboratory analogue experiments and computational models. Honours Pathway Option (HPO): Honours Pathway students will be required to synthesise a computational modelling exercise with theoretical concepts from the course material or complete an in-depth, critical review of a complex issue in structural geology.
Short-question format quizzes.
Learning outcomes 1, 2, 4, 5
Written submission of laboratory-based exercises.
Learning outcomes 1, 2, 5, 6
Report on linked laboratory exercises.
Learning outcomes 3, 4, 5, 7
Field mapping exercise
Learning outcomes 5, 6, 7
Final theory exam
Learning outcomes 1, 2, 4, 5
The expected workload will consist of approximately 130 hours throughout the semester including: - Face-to face component which may consist of 3 x 1 hour lectures and 1 x 2 hour workshops/labs per week. An optional drop-in session will be available after the practical. - Field trip — one half day field trip during the semester (in one of the workshop slots). - Approximately 70 hours of self-directed study which will include preparation for lectures, presentations and other assessment tasks. Other Information ADDITIONAL HPO DETAILS: Indicative Assessment: Students taking an HPO will either submit an extended computational modelling exercise, or, submit an additional literature review, both equivalent to 20% of overall assessment. The regular assessment will be scaled to 80%. Minimum Requirements: The HPO is open to all students. Students wishing to engage with the extended modelling option should have some background in python programming. Opt-in/Out: Students opt-in to the HPO by submitting the relevant assessment. Once it has been submitted, it is not possible to opt-out.
n/a