| Unit name | Field Methods |
|---|---|
| Unit code | CENG10005 |
| Credit points | 20 |
| Level of study | C/4 |
| Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 1 (weeks 1 - 12) |
| Unit director | Dr. Ross |
| Open unit status | Not open |
| Pre-requisites |
None |
| Co-requisites |
None |
| School/department | School of Civil, Aerospace and Design Engineering |
| Faculty | Faculty of Engineering |
This unit introduces students to the fundamentals of engineering geology and the basic surveying techniques required for mapping the surface profile of the ground for civil and environmental engineering projects. The unit will highlight the importance of developing a detailed understanding of ground conditions in successful civil engineering, and will help students to develop an understanding of ground modelling and measurement, to recognise major geotechnical hazards, to plan appropriate site investigations, and to develop safe and successful geotechnical design. Students will also acquire practical surveying skills and start to build the knowledge necessary to commission and critically review surveying fieldwork. The field work will also allow students to develop teamwork and leadership skills.
Topics covered:
Rocks and Weathering: Igneous Rocks, Sedimentary Rocks, Metamorphic Rocks, Physical and Chemical weathering
Structural: Folds and Unconformities, Discontinuities, Plate Tectonics and Earthquakes, Superficial Structures.
Stratigraphy: Geological column, Usefulness to engineers.
Geological Maps: Introduction to maps and mapwork, geological sections, true and apparent dip.
Surface Maps: sketching and plotting land maps
Field Surveying techniques: use of levels and theodolites, setting out techniques
Surveying calculations: field book keeping, bowditch spreadsheet
Communication: Showing how mastery of communication and learning is at the heart of successful teamwork.
At the end of the unit the student will be able to:
1. create 3D ground models from a variety of sources of information,
2, describe different rock types and their origin, and how this will influence their engineering properties
3, recall simple stratigraphy and apply to the use of geological maps
4, Describe geological processes and illustrate their impact on construction.
5. be able to demonstrate their understanding of the basic principles of surveying appropriate to the construction industry by carrying out calculations, sketching and drawing;
6. be able to use practical surveying techniques in the field.
7. describe some models of individual and team learning and relate these to their own experiences;
8. know how to behave in a safe manner in the University and on a construction site.
40 hours of lectures;
20 hours example classes;
local field trip
2 x 3 hour surveying practice classes;
Residential field course (6 days).
3 hour exam (40%)
Coursework exercises associated with residential field course (40%)
Field investigation exercise (20%)
Blyth FGN & de Freitas MN, A Geology for Engineers, 7th Ed. Arnold
Uren, J. and Price, B. (2010) Surveying for Engineers 5th Edition, Palgrave MacMillan, England.
Schofield, W. Engineering Surveying, 6th Ed, 2007. Butterworth-Heinemann
Irvine, W. Surveying for Construction, 5th Ed, 2006. McGraw Hill
Goleman, D. (2005) Emotional Intelligence
Penguin Dictionary of Geology – Any edition
