BETTER THAN A BRUNTON?

New technology is providing methods for quicker and more efficient collection of data in the field. During the fall 2014 semester the Field Geology class at Stockton attempted to integrate smart-phone digital apps into geologic mapping. In addition to using standard field notebooks, Brunton Compasses, and paper maps, we used the Gaia and FieldMove Clino Pro apps. Our experience was that both apps had strengths and weaknesses.

In 2009 TrailBehind released their GPS navigation app called Gaia GPS. Gaia has the capability to locate one’s self, eliminating previously time consuming methods. It allows one to preview and download a variety of maps to use in the absence of Wi-Fi or Internet service. This app allows the user to create waypoints that can include notes and pictures. In the field this saves precious time and keeps information in an organized manner. The major weakness is inaccurate altitude readings, typical of low priced GPS systems. On occasion the location displayed was slightly different than our actual location leading to brief periods waiting for Gaia to pinpoint our exact location correctly.

Midland Valley Exploration released FieldMove Clino Pro in 2013. This app allows the user to make accurate measurements of geologic features by using the phone’s internal gyroscope. It allows the user to take measurements quickly with all the accuracy of using a traditional Brunton compass. Clino Pro allows the user to efficiently measure strike, dip, trend, and plunge. It automatically places all of the measurements in a stereonet, viewable in the field. The user can specify the identification, color, and symbol style. One of the drawbacks to Fieldmove Clino is symbols inaccurately located on the map. The app does not provide topographic maps making it difficult to locate your position and draw features on a map.

Overall we find these new, emerging, and accessible technologies to vastly improve the capabilities of the user. Although each has its own set of weaknesses, the pros far outweigh the minor drawbacks of these apps. In addition, using these apps in tandem with one another helps overcome their individual weaknesses. However, we feel it is important for students to learn the traditional methods of taking and recording field data because these newer technologies work best in conjunction with traditional methods.