Practical Geological Education Initiative
On December 23, 2025, the Department of Petroleum and Mining Engineering at Tishk International University organized a comprehensive geological field trip for second-year students along the Erbil–Shaqlawa road. This practical excursion aimed to enhance students’ understanding of regional geology and geological structures through direct observation and hands-on experience in the field.
Structured Geological Formation Observation
The field trip followed a carefully planned route with five main stops, each representing distinct and significant geological formations within the region:
Formation Sequence Studied:
Upper Bakhtiari Formation in the Khanzad District (starting point)
Lower Bakhtiari Formation
Upper Fars Formation
Lower Fars Formation
Pila Spi Formation
Gercus Formation
Shiranish Formation
Bekhme Formation near Shaqlawa town (concluding point)
Field Skills Development and Structural Analysis
During the excursion, students engaged in practical geological skill development and structural observation:
Key Practical Activities:
Close examination of the Pirmam Anticline structure
Geological compass practice for measuring dip and strike of rock layers
Hands-on field skill development essential for geological mapping
Direct observation of structural relationships between formations
Detailed Geological Discussions
At each designated stop, detailed discussions were conducted focusing on specific geological characteristics:
Discussion Focus Areas:
Lithology analysis of exposed rock units
Bedding plane identification and interpretation
Fold structure examination and classification
Fracture and joint system analysis
Formation boundary recognition and significance
Sedimentary feature observation relevant to depositional environments
Educational Outcomes and Program Reinforcement
This field trip provided students with valuable practical learning experiences that significantly contributed to their geological education:
Key Learning Outcomes:
Strengthened understanding of geological formations in their regional context
Enhanced comprehension of structural geology principles through direct observation
Field investigation technique development applicable to petroleum and mining engineering
Reinforcement of fieldwork importance within geoscience education
Connection establishment between classroom theory and real-world geological features
Professional skill building for future geological and engineering fieldwork
This experiential learning opportunity successfully complemented theoretical coursework by providing tangible exposure to the geological realities that petroleum and mining engineers must understand for effective resource exploration, development, and management.
Keywords: Geological Field Trip, Petroleum Engineering, Structural Geology, Field Skills, Erbil-Shaqlawa Geology, Formation Analysis, Practical Learning, Mining Engineering Education
