Exploration and Mining Geology

A Specialised Subject Skills & Knowledge

1. Describe and identify the field expression of various ore and mineral forming processes and styles of mineralisation.

2. Recognise and use geological and production data presented on mine plans, sections and projections. Apply appropriate collection methods for such data and undertake its presentation and evaluation.

3. Recognise ore and gangue minerals and place them in context of larger mineralising systems.

4. Understand the geological framework of regions in the world, and appreciate the factors that influence the development of extractive industries.

5. Understand, evaluate and apply key exploration methods and demonstrate how they are devised.

6. Understand, evaluate and discuss the geological framework behind resource estimation, and gain skills in manual and computerised orebody modelling.

7. Understand the conversion of resources to reserves for mine production and identify methods for grade control.

8. Understand the common methods used in mine development, including familiarisation with open pit and underground mining. Understand the need for safety in mining environments and operations.

9. Understand the basic principles of mineral economics, and the financial appraisal of mining operations and apply these to a case study.

10. Know the main methods for mineral processing, and understand the importance of processing in creating a saleable product.

11. Understand the effect of mining on the environment, and the planning of mining operations to minimise the environmental impact.

12. Understand the role of ore bearing fluids in the genesis of ore deposits, and identify and explain the major controls on mineralisation.

13. Know the key characteristics of the major metalliferous ore and industrial mineral deposit types and predict how these will effect exploration, evaluation and exploitation.

14. Compare and contrast the various exploration techniques, mining methods and mineral processing routes available for exploiting a deposit depending on its physical and spacial characteristics.

15. Understand the role of sedimentary processes in the creation of mineral deposits of economic value. Identify the petrological and mineralogical differences between deposits of metal ores and industrial minerals.

16. Understand, apply and gain experience in various field-based and laboratory techniques for the acquisition, analysis, interpretation and presentation of data obtained in the exploration and evaluation of industrial rocks and minerals.

17. Have a theoretical knowledge and some practical experience of advanced techniques for the analysis of rocks and minerals, and be able to criticise analytical data in the context of exploration and mining scenarios.

18. Have knowledge of the major types of industrial rocks and minerals, with the ability to relate their geology, mineralogy and properties to their uses.

19. Understand the nature of the world market for industrial rocks and minerals, and to have an in-depth knowledge of several industrial mineral markets.

20. Apply a range of academic and practical skills to execute a research project related to mining geology

Learning & Teaching Activities

Material is introduced by lectures and directed reading/research and students are given very clear guidance in how to manage their learning. Understanding is developed and consolidated by laboratory and private study exercises, carried out individually and in groups, both self-assessed and tutor marked to provide rapid feedback. In addition, flipped classroom group activities will enhance the understanding of complex topics within the overall scope of module delivery. Project work is used extensively to integrate material and make knowledge functional.

1, 4, 11, 13 are supported by lectures in several modules and fieldwork including an overseas visit to a major world mining region. 2, 5, 6 and 7 are supported by a module in mineral resource estimation and grade control, which involves a large number of case histories, and data manipulation by the student. 3, 5, 10, 12, 13, 14, 16 and 17 are supported by extensive practical work using the rock and mineral collections at CSM, the laboratory analytical facilities and underground field stations. 8, 9, 12, 15, 18, and 19 are acquired largely through lectures, directed reading, and mini-project reports. 11 is supported by a specialist lecture programme and fieldwork. 20, is supported by a 5 month independent research project. Several other subject specific skills are also supported by the research project.

7 - 11 are acquired in parts of several modules, and are an important part of the research project and dissertation. 9 and 10 are especially important for the module “Exploration and Mining Geology” (CSMM194) and in CSMM047 (Research Project).

Assessment Methods

Direct assessment is principally conducted through marked coursework in the form of problem sheets, laboratory reports, reports/essays, a group project and poster based on directed reading and research. A small number of modules is also assessed by practical and closed book exams. The research project is assessed by the supervisor, independent member of staff and the external examiner.
 

B Academic Discipline Core Skills & Knowledge

1. Demonstrate a systematic and creative approach to problem solving.

2. Recognise, explain and apply a wide range of techniques for the acquisition, analysis, interpretation and presentation of geo-scientific data.

3. Understand the role of the mining geologist in a wider management context.

4. Understand, discuss and evaluate the importance of earth resources to an economy, and issues of sustainability in mining.

5. Understand the importance of making scientific observations, recognising similarities between these and stated models and using these observations to determine or support interpretations.

6. Take personal responsibility for acting in a professional and ethical manner.

Practical skills – able to:

7. Select and use appropriate ICT based tools for evaluation of data (numeric and spacial).

8. Select and use laboratory instrumentation appropriately and correctly.

9. Critically appraise the quality of data coming from analytical instrumentation.

10. Undertake fieldwork independently in different terrains, anticipating problems before they arise.

11. Work safely in laboratory, in the field, underground, and promote safe practice.

Learning & Teaching Activities

All core skills are integrated into each module, and are developed steadily throughout the year. 1, 5 and 6 are especially relevant to the major research project and dissertation. 6 is further developed whilst the student seeks out his/her research project.

Assessment Methods

Analytical and intellectual skills are assessed within all modules through formal written examinations, both open and closed book, and marked coursework in the form of problem sheets, research reports etc. This reinforces skill 5

A strong focus of the coursework is placed on report writing, i.e. the description, interpretation, evaluation and discussion of data provided or generated. Most modules (CSMM047, 193-194, 083) are coursework/ report-heavy aiming to practise and implement these transferrable academic skills. In addition, a focus of assignments is placed on the critical evaluation and discussion of data and results. This will be reflected by a substantial part of the overall focus, effort and mark  dedicated to the discussion section. 

C Personal / Transferable / Employment Skills & Knowledge

1. Communicate effectively and persuasively using the full range of currently available methods.

2. Manage resources and time.

3. Work as a member of a team.

4. Learn independently, identifying own personal development needs and goals, reflecting on own performance and managing own personal development.

5. Obtain and process information from a wide range of sources, which may be conflicting, analyse it critically and apply this information in engineering applications.

6. Sort, manipulate and present data in a way that facilitates effective analysis and decision-making.
 

Learning & Teaching Activities

1-5 are acquired through aspects of all modules. 3 is further acquired through group projects, which involve a single report or poster. 1 forms part of the process of the student seeking out a project for the Research Project and Dissertation module, as it involves direct communication with professionals in the mining industry. 5 and 6 likewise are important components of the Research Project and Dissertation. 2 is taught through negotiating with the students and applying deadlines on projects.

Assessment Methods

Assessment of key skills is mostly through written and oral presentations, and through project work. All are assessed as part of the Research Project and Dissertation. 2, in particular, is assessed in several assignments and the Research Project by introduction of a time management KPI of 10% of the overall mark.