Page 22 - IMPC Education Book_low res
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MINERALS INDUSTRY EDUCATION AND TRAINING II
Ensure students learn to use modelling packages that can deal with
particulate solid materials in process streams.
Introduce undergraduates to use of tools and technologies using
problem-based activities, for example:
w Metallurgical problem-solving using mineralogical tools
w Use of simulation to predict impact of process changes
w Metallurgical accounting and mass balancing.
Expose students to sustainability topics including water and energy
conservation, environmental consequences of chemical and heavy
metal contamination, emissions control measures.
Identify and teach mineral processing aspects of importance locally –
eg: precious metals processing and refining in Nevada, coal processing
in eastern Australia, iron and steel production in India.
Develop the complete professional
Encourage application of knowledge to practice by ensuring students
understand the full value chain – mine to metal production. Teach
integrated facets of all aspects of running a mining and minerals
processing operation
Develop problem solving skills using problem-based learning. Use real
case studies with emphasis on what worked? Why did it work? what
didn’t work? and some thoughts on why ?
Encourage innovative and independent thought using specifically
designed learning activities and exercises. Teach people to find
information for themselves. The role of universities is to teach people
to innovate not necessarily to train them for specific tasks.
Develop communication skills, including ability to explain and justify
concepts to a non-technical audience. Include oral and written
communication – presentations and report-writing.
Give students site experience, and support co-op programs, where
students spend a semester or more on site. Assist students to find
vacation work.
Provide opportunities for lab work.
Identify undergraduate and postgraduate thesis topics that address real
problems leaving room for the student to exercise some independent
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