Geoscientific data management is an essential skill set any geoscientist should develop whether you are employed in mining, environmental or research-related fields. Recent developments in GIS data capture using smartphone apps allow geoscientists to streamline data capture in the field and later to manipulate and share the data within an organisation.

The module therefore aims to introduce geological (mapping and sampling) data management workflows comprising simple to advanced excel databases as well as the usage of tailored GIS smartphone apps.

This is a coursework and independent/ self-study heavy module that allows you to practically learn and familiarise with data management principles.

This course builds upon CSMM189 (GIS and Remote Sensing) and uses material and learnings from CSMM194 (Exploration and Mining Geology).

The module introduces and develops basic and innovative geological data management skills that can be applied in different geoscientific disciplines. Practical examples of geological workflows in mineral exploration outline the data management process, consisting of data collection in the field, editing, manipulation and sharing of data within an organisation. Developing databases and apps allow the student to experience and assess first-hand the importance of data management and diligence that are required for further technical and financial decision-making. A particular focus of the module will be to link geological databases with mobile apps in order to facilitate and support traditional sampling tasks in the field.

On successful completion of this module, you should be able to:

Module Specific Skills and Knowledge:

1 Apply geological data management methods, in particular databases and the integration with GIS software packages;

2 Confidently use MS Excel, ArcGIS and other software packages, including smartphone apps;

3 Handle spatial data and generate maps, databases and interpretations for geological and general management;

4 Develop a geological database and applied this to practical problems in mineral exploration and other areas;

Discipline Specific Skills and Knowledge:

5 Systematically and critically explore the  use of geological databases for the acquisition, analysis, interpretation and presentation of geo-scientific data relevant to applied geological disciplines;

6 Explain how “clean” datasets look like and why this is crucial in geological and financial decision-making processes;

7 Review geoscientific workflows (e.g. field mapping and sampling) and develop tailored database and data management solutions to solve a specific geological problem;

Personal and Key Transferable/ Employment Skills and Knowledge:

8 Select and utilise a full range of online learning resources and software packages to analyse, synthesise and interpret a data-related geological problem;

9 Apply modern technology and software to provide a solution to a traditional geological problem;

10 Develop essential and innovative software skills highly sought after by future employers.

After a general introduction and brainstorming session on geological databases, field sampling strategies and data management principles, you will independently (guidance and drop-in sessions provided) work on setting up a tailored geological database in MS Excel. This database will subsequently be used in mobile GIS apps and tested in the field during a data collection campaign.

Depending on previous performance on assignments (how many assignments were passed), one or two pieces of coursework at 50% each. All referral marks are capped at 50%.

ELE – http://vle.exeter.ac.uk/

A list of web resources and academic papers are available through ELE. In addition, the course site contains comprehensive online resources including lectures, PowerPoint presentations, documents and reference material in pdf format, mp3 podcasts, videos, e-tivities, discussion boards; and links to the University of Exeter electronic library and its comprehensive resources.

Web based and electronic resources:

Module is largely delivered by a dedicated ELE website that also involves links to external corporate, professional, educational websites and YouTube.

http://support.esri.com/en/knowledgebase/Gisdictionary/browse (useful GIS dictionary provided by ESRI)

http://resources.arcgis.com (useful website for ArcGIS forums, online help and support)

http://help.arcgis.com/ (another useful ArcGIS online help website)

Other resources:

The site will have additional literature resources from external professional bodies, technical guides and manuals and use of company annual reports.

Reading list for this module: