The course objectives are to teach both traditional and digital methods of geological surveying and geological mapping, with a focus on applications related to land management, risk management, and natural resource management. The course aims to train students in the following areas:
i) Analysis, data collection, and sampling in diverse geological environments (sedimentary sequences, igneous and metamorphic bases), with varying degrees of tectonic complexity. ii) Practical experience with digital surveying techniques using dedicated devices and software. iii) Understanding, creation, and interpretation of geological maps and sections, transitioning from traditional paper-based to digital formats. iv) Compilation and management of geodatabases, in line with national and international mapping projects. v) Production of geological reports.
This course covers a range of skills, from fieldwork and data collection to digital mapping and report writing, all aimed at equipping students with a comprehensive understanding of geological surveying and mapping for practical applications in environmental management and resource exploration.
Course Prerequisites
Geological Survey Basics of Stratigraphy, Structural Geology, Petrology, and Geomorphology
Teaching Methods
- The lectures involve the use of cartographic material through GIS (Geographic Information Systems) and other graphic processing software. - The practical field activities are organized in two or more excursions where activities will take place, alternately together with the instructor or in groups or individually.
Assessment Methods
The exam includes:
- Field tests of various techniques performed - Production of geological maps and technical reports related to one of the field excursions conducted - Execution of an interpretive geological section on a map assigned by the instructor, different from those constructed during the excursions - An oral exam based on the discussion of the work produced in the previous tests"
Texts
- The mapping of Geological Structures (Ken
McClay - 1987; Wiley editore) - Field Geology of High-grade Gneiss Terrains (Passchier,Myers, & Kroner, 1990 – Springer- Verlageditore) - Rilevamento Geologico (Paolo Conti, 2014; Gianluca Cornamusini - Centro di Geotecnologie dell’Università di Siena)
Contents
Fiel work in environments with varying geological characteristics, including crystalline and metamorphic basement, sedimentary basins, and carbonate platforms, are conducted to conduct area and detailed geological surveys. During these field days, several survey campaigns are carried out that include:
Lithological recognition (identification and description of rock types) Compositional feature description Essential reconstruction of the stratigraphy of sedimentary successions Structural measurements Identification of magmatic and/or metamorphic fabric Identification of deformational fabric Identification and survey of Quaternary deposits Preliminary characterization of rock masses for subsequent technical applications Reading, compilation, and drafting of geological maps and accompanying technical reports.