Introductory Field Camp for New Geoscience Majors
Nick Zentner Central Washington University
Author ProfileThinking about majoring in Geology? Let's spend two weeks in beautiful Owens Valley, CA making geologic maps with other students new to geology! Course strengths: basic mapping skills learned, bonding of students entering our program, commitment to Geology major.
GSA Poster (Acrobat (PDF) 39.4MB Nov5 04)
Learning Goals
Content/Concepts:- mapping complex geologic relationships
- seeing projects through to completion
- seeing projects through to completion
Geologic Skills:
- plot contact and structural data on maps
- draft maps, cross sections, & strat columns
- learn use of Brunton, stereoscopes, topo maps
- draft maps, cross sections, & strat columns
- learn use of Brunton, stereoscopes, topo maps
Higher Order Thinking Skills:
- infer subsurface geology from surface mapping
- draw conclusions from mapping data
- draw conclusions from mapping data
Other Skills:
- develop successful working relationship with mapping partner
Context
Instructional Level:- early as possible in undergrad geology major
Skills Needed:
- basic college-level intro geology course
- intro geology lab which emphasizes rock identification and map reading
- intro geology lab which emphasizes rock identification and map reading
Role of Activity in a Course:
- allows application of GEOL 101 concepts and strengthens bonding of incoming geology students.
Data, Tools and Logistics
Required Tools:- Brunton, hammer, hand lens, stereoglasses
- easy learning
- easy learning
Logistical Challenges:
- challenging terrain leads to minor injuries
- challenging field projects may lead to insecure students!
- challenging field projects may lead to insecure students!
Evaluation
Evaluation Goals:Skills mastered?
Ability to develop sound conclusions from mappable data?
Ability to develop sound conclusions from mappable data?
Evaluation Techniques:
Graded projects (3) look for mastery of geologic data collection and interpretation.
Description
Taking potential geology majors down to Owens Valley, California for two weeks each September has hooked many good students for our program. Field mapping at this level is challenging for the students, but the strong feelings of competence, excitement, and belonging override the short-lived discomfort of working hard in the desert!