EarthLabs

Earth and environmental science classes are changing. Long perceived as low-level courses, they are developing into programs that challenge and inspire students to explore the complexities of their home planet. As satellite-based sensors improve and our view of Earth as a single interacting system evolves, these classes have become a prime venue for learning relevant information.

In keeping with this transformation, the EarthLabs project provides a national model for rigorous and engaging Earth and environmental science labs. Four units illustrate sequences for learning science concepts through data analysis activities and hands-on experiments. In the activities, students use satellite imagery, numerical data, and computer visualization software to explore Earth system processes. Additionally, labs include the use and development of quantitative skills that enable students to evaluate scientific results for themselves.