Module manager: Graham McLeod
Email: G.W.McLeod@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2026/27
Satisfactory completion of levels 1 and 2. Students undertaking a field-based mapping project must have completed SOEE2930 or SOEE2931. If students are undertaking a laboratory-based project they should take SOEE3040.
This module is not approved as a discovery module
This module encompasses the independent mapping fieldwork/desk-top research and dissertation write-up for BSc level students. Students spend a nominal 4-week period engaged in independent fieldwork (or in certain circumstances on a desk-top study) in small groups with limited staff supervision, before writing up their results in the form of an extended report accompanied by a fair-copy map prepared using GIS software.
This module is designed to:
- Develop students' ability to complete a period of independent field observational research (in exceptional circumstances a laboratory/desk-top research project may be allowed);
- Write a substantial report on the basis of the student's own observations;
- Test students' powers of scientific observation, data collection, synthesis, interpretation and presentation;
- Develop self-motivation and an ability to work to a deadline.
The module comprises an independent field-based project designed in collaboration with the project supervisor, who will also provide early field supervision, advice on logistics and strict recommendations on field safety. A series of tutorials will be held in support of data analysis, interpretation and report preparation. Laboratory/desktop-based research options are available to students who have mitigating or special circumstances and are unable to undertake fieldwork. Such projects are likely to have amended deadlines.
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tutorial | 5 | 1 | 5 |
| Private study hours | 395 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 5 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 400 | ||
Students will be expected to conduct logistical planning for their independent projects, particularly in the case of field-based mapping. Exercise of initiative, flexibility and time-management skills is essential. Students should read widely around their topic area, including resources on both data and techniques for data acquisition, analysis and synthesis. You will spend 196 hours on independent self-directed fieldwork and 199 hours on project write-up.
Academic supervision during the supervisor's field visit and during level 3 semester 1 tutorials.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Project | Project Report (max 7500 words). GIS map (with geological key, stratigraphic column, and cross-sections etc.) or A0 conference-style poster as appropriate. Project Report (max 7,500 words). Submitted at the end of the January exam period. | 40 |
| Portfolio | Representing all field-materials (notebooks, field slips, cross-sections, stereonets, logs, etc.) OR all equivalent laboratory-based materials (notebooks, data and metadata etc.). Submitted at the end of the field/laboratory campaign | 60 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
As resits of independent fieldwork are not possible, students will be given the opportunity to correct and resubmit their report and fair copy map or poster, supplemented by additional use of the literature if necessary.
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 30/04/2026
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