Field geology course with GIS application 1300-OKTG-GGG
This course allows students to learn the techniques involved in geological fieldwork and to conclude about geological structure using their field observations.
Students use skills and knowledge acquired during the “Basics of Geology” course (lectures and exercises) including identification of minerals, rock, and fossils.
During field trips, students document sedimentary sections in natural outcrops and quarries, identify rocks, interpret their sedimentary environments, and identify tectonic deformations. Measurements involve bedding orientations and the thickness of rock strata.
Detailed field observations are further supported by terrain relief analysis using topographical maps and digital elevation models. The participants learn recognition of spatial and stratigraphical relations of rock sequences, allowing for the reconstruction of the geological evolution of the area. The timing of events like sedimentation, folding, and mineralization is deduced.
Within student groups, the geological problems are discussed and solved based on field arguments and theoretical knowledge. The emphasis is placed on the conceptual synthesis of geological premises and their presentation as maps and sections.
The collected field data is categorized and spatially localized for further use in geographic information systems (GIS).
The participants develop their own GIS projects with field data to describe and visualize the geological structure of the western part of the Holy Cross Mountains.
Type of course
Prerequisites (description)
Course coordinators
Learning outcomes
After completing the course, the participant:
K_W01 – understands physical and geological phenomena,
K_W02 – knows and interprets geological processes on the surface and within the interior of the Earth active in the past and in the present,
K_W20 – knows the safety rules during fieldwork and laboratory procedures,
K_U01 – can identify macroscopically common minerals and rocks and classify them,
K_U02 – can identify and describe the process leading to rock formation,
K_U05 – can make geological sections and interpret them according to planisection and intersection rules; can explain the geological history of the course area,
K_U09 – has the skill to use appropriate instruments and tools during geological field work and laboratory procedures,
K_K07 – is responsible for the safety of himself and others during laboratory and fieldwork.
Assessment criteria
Test of practical skills in the field and final written exam.
Practical placement
Not applicable
Additional information
Additional information (registration calendar, class conductors, localization and schedules of classes), might be available in the USOSweb system: