Introducing Geophysics for Urban and Near-Surface Applications

The IGUaNA project team introduces its first three modules for introductory-level undergraduate science courses, featuring the applications of geophysical techniques to societally-relevant, real-world problems: Measuring Depth to Bedrock for an Urban Renewal Project using Seismic Refraction; Pipes, Tree Roots or Unmarked Graves? Using Ground Penetrating Radar for Forensic Geophysics; and Evaluating the Health of an Urban Wetland using Electrical Resistivity. Modules are designed to maximize student engagement and learning through analysis of real data and clear connections to communities. Each IGUaNA module is comprised of three to five units and takes about 1-3 weeks of class time when done in its entirety. For instructors with less time available, a subset of units can be selected. Each of the course modules has been peer-reviewed, tested in undergraduate classrooms, and revised prior to publication. Published materials meet rigorous benchmarks for student-centered learning outcomes, instructional strategies, resource content, and assessment effectiveness. The development of these resources has been funded by NSF through their support of the SAGE Facility operated by IRIS, and the materials are available free of charge.