UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH: A STUDENT'S PERSPECTIVE ON LEARNING THROUGH RESEARCH

An undergraduate opportunity to conduct research on Costa Rican volcanoes arose during a spring break Eco-tour to Costa Rica. Since time to conduct actual field research on the trip was extremely limited, satellite remote sensing of the region coupled with in-field observations seemed more feasible, both logistically and financially. Having taken introductory courses in remote sensing and geographic information systems (GIS), this project afforded me the opportunity of enhancing those skills. Since my goal is to become a college professor, I became fascinated with the learning process facilitated during the course of conducting undergraduate research.

Some key elements that contributed to the success of my original research include: 1) a university that supports undergraduate research both intellectually and financially, 2) a department with faculty who are genuinely interested in a students success, 3) a mentor with the ability to support and encourage the student, and 4) encouragement and support of fellow students. These elements allowed me to elevate myself from a student looking at ‘pretty pictures' to a geology/geography major with the ability to prepare for complex field research, by being able to differentiate between individual extrusive volcanic events on satellite images. The success of the research includes the presentation of my original satellite image mapping research at the 2004 GSA National Convention, the desire to pursue at least two other research projects and the confidence to successfully take knowledge learned from the classroom and into the field.