Exploring Geoscience Solutions to Energy and Climate
The Exploring Geoscience Solutions (EGeoS) learning modules assist high school to early college students in building STEM knowledge and skills aligned with diverse and emerging careers in climate and energy sectors. Using inquiry-driven learning cycle instructional design, EGeoS provides hands-on, locally relevant investigations that affirms students' connection to place and their self-efficacy through an empowerment framework. The inaugural module collection was developed as part of the NSF-supported Appalachian Geoscience Learning Ecosystem (AGLE) and was co-created by West Virginia University geoscience faculty and West Virginia high school STEM "Educator Influencers" through workshops, state science teachers conference sessions and survey feedback. The AGLE EGeoS collection is designed around 6 EGeoS modules:
1. Can We Control Earth's Temperature?
2. Is There White Gold (Lithium) in Appalachia?
3. Can Trees Solve Climate Change?
4. Are Rare Earth Elements in Coal Waste?
5. Is There Geothermal Energy in Appalachia?
6. Can Atmospheric Carbon Go Back Underground?
Module learning objectives are aligned with state College- and Career- Readiness Standards for Science (that are built on NGSS) in Earth & Space Science as well as Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Physical Science which are integral to climate and energy fields. In addition, modules incorporate ties to ongoing energy and climate research, regionally accessible career profiles and pathways for continuing education to access these careers. Participants will explore the EGeoS modules and receive support in developing an action plan to apply this model to their own geographic/cultural regions or to expand the AGLE network in other Appalachian areas.
Intended Audience
9-12 high school science teachers, 2YC science instructors, 4YC earth science, geoscience, environmental science instructors
Goals
By the end of this workshop, participants will:
- Engage with multiple inquiry-based, hands-on Exploring Geoscience Solutions (EGeoS) modules that develop student understanding of core science concepts and their application to regionally relevant climate and energy solutions
- Explore instructional strategies within an empowerment framework that connect fundamental STEM concepts to geoscience knowledge that can address local climate and energy challenges and lead toward emerging career and educational pathways
- Develop an action plan to adap an existing EGeoS learning module or develop a new EGeoS module to suit their own geographic region within Appalachia or beyond
Workshop Agenda
1:30-2:00 Welcome & Introduction to Exploring Geoscience Solutions (EGeoS) modules
2:00-2:45: EGeoS Learning Module Exploration
- Try out the activities aligned with one or more of the EGeoS learning modules
2:45-3:15: EGeoS Learning Module Adaptation or Brainstorm
- Reimagine one of the activities in an EGeoS learning module for use by your students
- Develop a learning module that addresses another climate or energy challenge using the EGeoS pedagogy
3:15-3:50: Learning Module Adaptation/Brainstorm Share Out
3:50-4:00 Reflection & Roadcheck/Assessment