Geosciences
Boise State University
Radiocarbon dating project part of Cutting Edge:Rates and Time:Teaching Activities
This is an example of an activity used in a Quaternary Geochronology course, in which a small group of students (3-4) is tasked with transforming a set of activity measurements into radiocarbon ages and calibrated calendar ages, and providing an interpretation of these data within the context of the scientific literature on the topic, as an in-class poster presentation.
REE Modeling of Melting and Crystallization part of Cutting Edge:Geochemistry:Activities
This exercise is used in and out of class for exploring the use of trace elements to model melting and crystallization processes; it emphasizes quantitative skills and constructing numerical models.
Evolution of Western North America part of Process of Science:Courses
This course is designed to provide future geoscientists with a basic understanding of how geological processes have shaped the structure and evolution of the western North American continent. The study of the geology of western North America in turn serves as a means of introduction to the nature of scientific investigation, and the research methods geologists apply to formulate and test geological hypotheses. A laboratory component emphasizing field methods and local geologic mapping provides students with practical experience with the process of science.
Quaternary Geochronology part of Cutting Edge:Rates and Time:Courses
This course is designed to examine the principles and methods of the most widely used numerical dating methodologies for the Quaternary period (roughly the last two million years of Earth history), and how they constrain the timing, duration and rates of geologic and archaeological events and processes. Discussions focus on the resolving power, strengths and weaknesses of various geochronological techniques, and strategies for their successful application to a range of geological and geoarchaeological problems.
