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

This unit aims to introduce students to the fundamentals of mineral resources. It examines the distribution, origins and characteristics of mineral systems (gold, base metals, iron ore, alumina, mineral sands and coal), methods of exploration for these resources, and issues related to mining and extraction. The unit also covers topics in mineral resource modelling includng geostatistics (variograms and kriging), wireframe modelling, block modelling, grade estimation and the JORC reporting code.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 3 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) locate and critically evaluate sources of information; (2) demonstrate knowledge of the geological setting of the world's main mineral resources and characteristics of the mineral systems; (3) apply statistical and geostatistical methods to assess various aspects of mineral resources; and (4) demonstrate understanding of the basic techniques in mineral resource modelling.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) written assignments during semester and (2) final theory 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)
Professor Steffen Hagemann
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Successful completion of
one Unit(s) EART2231 Earth Materials
Contact hours
lectures: 4 hours per week
laboratories: 2 hours per week
  • 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.
  • Visit the Essential Textbooks website to see if any textbooks are required for this Unit. The website is updated regularly so content may change. Students are recommended to purchase Essential Textbooks, but a limited number of copies of all Essential Textbooks are held in the Library in print, and as an ebook where possible. Recommended readings for the unit can be accessed in Unit Readings directly through the Learning Management System (LMS).
  • 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.