Aims

Geological mapping is one of the fundamental skills of a geologist. Geological maps serve as primary tools in any economic or societal issue related to the subsurface (e.g. natural resources, geohazards, disposal facilities, infrastructure, …). Geological maps are no statements of facts, but are testable models within the context of the prevailing geological paradigms, of which the accuracy depends on the quality of the highly incomplete data set of geological observations available to the mapper, as well as the experience and expertise of the mapper.

This course focuses on the scientific practice of geological mapping, as the iterative process that eventually results in a geological map (including stratigraphical colum, cross-sections, …).

Operational goals:

• keeping a field notebook, as a document of the scientific practice;
• developing a mapping strategy, which is recorded in the field notebook;
• developing a geologically coherent working model, which is eventually reflected in the geological map and cross-sections;
• demonstrating the capacity of managing time constraints by continuously assessing the level of detail required to develop a geological model, the spatial distribution, detail and relevancy of observations, ... while performing the geological mapping;
• pursuing a balance between individual work and team work within the assigned time constraints, leading up to a synthetic geological map of the mapping region, assigned to the mapping team;
• preparing a high-quality geological map, following all principles of geological mapping;
• presenting, arguing, discussing the key elements of the geological model, represented in the geological map.

Previous knowledge

This course builds on the knowledge and expertise acquired by the student in the previous mapping exercises in the bachelor program, in particular in the courses Geologische Analyse & Synthese I (G0W50) and Geologische Analyse & Synthese II (G0Y34) at the KU Leuven. For incoming students from outside KU Leuven, a similar degree of mapping experience is expected.

Identical courses

This course is identical to the following courses:
G0B39A : Geologisch karteren (No longer offered this academic year)
G0Y79A : Geological Mapping
G0B39B : Geologisch karteren

Is included in these courses of study

• Master of Geology (Programme for students started in 2023-2024 or later) (Leuven et al) 120 ects.