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 covers topics such as the distribution, origins, and characteristics of mineral systems (gold, base metals, iron ore, alumina, mineral sands and coal), methods of exploration for them, and issues related to mining and extraction. Mineral resource modelling procedures are covered, including geostatistics (semi-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
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) demonstrate critical thinking and information literacy (locate, evaluate, and critique sources of information relevant for assignments); (2) perform enquiry-based thinking relevant to the discipline; (3) demonstrate and interpret the structure and geological setting of the world's main mineral resources; (4) evaluate knowledge of topics such as the distribution, origins, and characteristics of mineral systems (gold, base metals, iron ore, alumina, mineral sands, and coal), methods of exploration for them and issues related to mining and extraction; (5) demonstrate the application of statistical and geostatistical methods to assessing various aspects of mineral resources; (6) demonstrate the techniques in mineral resource modelling including geostatistics (such as semi-variograms and Kriging), and explain wireframe modelling, block modelling, grade estimation and the JORC reporting code. Resource modelling software may be used during tutorials.; (7) understand and explain advanced underpinning algorithms of resource modelling (simulation techniques) and how they apply to resource models.; and (8) evaluate grade estimation techniques and recognise its importance for grade control, reconciliation, and mining 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
enrolment in
the Master of Professional Engineering (Mining Engineering specialisation)
Incompatibility
EART3351 Mineral Resources
Advisable prior study
ENSC3011 Fundamentals of Mining Engineering (formerly Resource Extraction Technologies)
Contact hours
Lectures: 4 hours per week
Practicals: 1 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.
  • 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.