CULTURAL CONNECTIONS IN GEOSCIENCE EDUCATION

General education geoscience course material can be easily customized to the culture differences of different audiences. Because geoscience course material lends itself to customization by geographic location, faculty regularly use local example to illustrate points. The same can be done with local cultures and religious beliefs. These connections help students who might otherwise be disconnected from science to become engaged in their learning.

Students who are exposed to course material that presents perspectives that may or may not conflict with their religious beliefs often are curious to learn about what science says. Different cultures are more accepting of scientific principles, but generally undergraduate students are curious about interpretations that are different from those taught at home. If the faculty member demonstrates an awareness of the cultures that are present in the classroom, interesting discussions can precipitate in general education courses.