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 introduces the concepts and applications of geophysical and geochemical techniques at a variety of scales in mineral exploration. The objective is to develop knowledge of relevant exploration techniques, including their strengths and weaknesses, and practical skills in the analysis of multiple data sets using computer-based methods. It covers the design and integrated interpretation of geophysical and geochemical surveys, including data processing and modelling. These skills are applied to exploration targeting of commodities such as iron, gold, nickel in areas of outcrop and under cover. Laboratory sessions may include a visit to a commercial analytical laboratory. They also cover remote (HyMap and ASTER) and proximal (ASD, HyLogger) spectral sensing as applied in mineral exploration.
- Credit
- 6 points
- Outcomes
Students are able to (1) acquire a basic understanding of how geophysical and geochemical technologies are used in modern mineral exploration targeting; (2) gain experience in the integrated analysis of exploration data sets, recognising their respective strengths and weaknesses; (3) identify the most appropriate methods for exploring for different commodities in different geological environments; (4) analyse petrophysical data and undertake qualitative and quantitative analysis (modelling) of geophysical responses; and (5) analyse geochemical data and determine pathfinder elements for different ore types.
- Assessment
Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) a geophysics assignment (50 per cent); (2) a geochemistry exercise (25 per cent); and (3) a geochemical seminar (25 per cent). 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 Michael Dentith
- Unit rules
- Prerequisites
- GEOS4411 Mineralising Systems or equivalent,
or by approval of unit coordinator - Incompatibility
- EART3345 Mineral Exploration Technology, EART8345 Mineral Exploration Technology, EART8506 Computer-aided Exploration Targeting
- Advisable prior study
- EART3342 Geochemistry and Petrology, EART3353 Geological Mapping, EART3343 Structural Geology and Tectonics,
or equivalents
- Contact hours
- lectures/lab sessions: 150 hours (includes non-contact hours)
- 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.
Face to face
Predominantly face-to-face. On campus attendance required to complete this unit. May have accompanying resources online.
Online flexible
100% Online Unit. NO campus face-to-face attendance is required to complete this unit. All study requirements are online only. Unit is asynchronous delivery, with NO requirement for students to participate online at specific times.
Online timetabled
100% Online Unit. NO campus face-to-face attendance is required to complete this unit. All study requirements are online only. Unit includes some synchronous components, with a requirement for students to participate online at specific times.
Online Restricted
Not available for self-enrolment. Students access this mode by contacting their student office through AskUWA. 100% Online Unit.
NO campus face-to-face attendance. All study and assessment requirements are online only. Unit includes some timetabled activities, with a requirement for students to participate online at specific times. In exceptional cases (noted in the Handbook) students may be required to participate in face-to-face laboratory classes when a return to UWA’s Crawley campus becomes possible in order to be awarded a final grade.
External
No attendance or regular contact is required, and all study requirements are completed either via correspondence and/or online submission.
Off-campus
Regular attendance is not required, but student attends the institution face to face on an agreed schedule for purposes of supervision and/or instruction.
Multi-mode
Multiple modes of delivery. Unit includes a mix of online and on-campus study requirements. On campus attendance for some activities is required to complete this unit.