Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

Mining engineers develop and operate mines to extract and process minerals economically, in a safe and environmentally responsible manner. This unit is an introduction to the technologies used to extract minerals from the ground. It is a required unit for mining engineering subjects and is suitable for those considering mining as a career option. It provides a foundation for the mining engineering discipline and will provide a good understanding of the mining industry. Topics include an overview of the geology of mineral resources, typical operational processes and design considerations for open pit and underground mining. A field trip may be made to an operational mine near Perth.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 2UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 3 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) apply critical thinking and information literacy (locate and evaluate sources of information for assignments); (2) produce high quality written communications; (3) apply knowledge of basic science and engineering fundamentals; (4) distinguish the fundamental technologies employed in the common methods of surface and underground mining; (5) determine appropriate equipment (in size and quantity) to apply to an excavation scenario; and (6) explain the multidisciplinary nature of mining engineering, and the various roles of engineers within these operations.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) in-class quizzes; (2) project assignments; and (3) a final examination. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Dr Adam Schwartzkopff
Unit rules
Prerequisites
MATH1721 Mathematics Foundations: Methods
or MATX1721 Mathematics Foundations
or Mathematics Methods ATAR
Contact hours
lectures: 4 hours per week
practical classes: 1 hours per week
Note
Enrolled students can access unit materials via the LMS (Learning Management System).
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.