Assessment of Capstone Geology Mapping Course: Outdoor, Experiential Learning
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.13021/G8C896Keywords:
STEM education, assessment, experiential learning, research experiences for undergraduates, scholarship of teaching and learningAbstract
Geologists often state that ââ¬Åthe best geologist is the one who sees the most rocksââ¬Â, however, there is little to no documentation that directly supports this claim.àVery little has been done on assessment of field based, experiential learning classes except in the fields of outward bound and outdoor leadership.àAll GMU students in BA Geology and BS Earth Science must take GEOL404 Geological Field Techniques.àStudents spend 6 weeks in the field mapping (individually and in teams) the local geology to interpret the geologic history of the area. It is an interesting course to assess as students can take either a GMU-offered course, ran jointly with UNC, Chapel Hill, or anotheràequivalent course offered by a USA University. This gives a unique perspective on the studentââ¬â¢s perceived preparation with respect to students from other Universities.àThe SENCER-SALG tool isàused to examine student learning, engagement and long-term habit-forming outcomes. Students attending Field camp in 2013 complete a pre and post survey.àStudents from past years complete a survey withàquestions relating to pre and post Field Camp, and their views 2-3 years post field camp. This study offers a framework for assessing other field based courses in applied disciplines.