Beyond the Computer: Incorporation of Virtual Field Experiences, Hands-on Specimens, and Autonomous Research Opportunities for Effective Online Geoscience Education

Traditionally, geoscience instructors used the rallying slogan that “geology is best taught in the field.” However, the popularity of distance learning has brought newer—and additional—challenges for effective education. Geoscience instructors now face different barriers for successfully teaching in online environments.

Our research within distance learning geoscience classrooms revealed that effective education is possible within an online environment. Through multiple semesters (N=7) of various distance geoscience courses (N=5), anonymous end-of-semester student surveys revealed that students relish opportunities that 1) move them beyond the confines of their computer environment, and 2) help to facilitate relationships with their online colleagues and local communities. Some of our successful projects included virtual field experiences, hands-on specimens accompanied with online discussion forums, and autonomous research assignments within students' local areas.

Students reported that our online physical geology and tectonics courses successfully incorporated virtual field exercises. Students identified that a new familiarity with online mapping technology, as well as experiencing views of the “real Earth,” were benefits of these virtual field experiences.

Students also responded favorably to hands-on specimens. These instructor-chosen samples are sent to students at the beginning of the semester. Students then apply the geology content they learn during the semester to identify the numbered specimens. Electronic discussion boards provide opportunities for interactive student discussion, including the posting of individual specimen photographs.

Direct research experiences within students' local environments are possible in online environments, and are students' overwhelming favorite online activity thus far. Our research revealed that master's level students are able to effectively plan and conduct research in their local areas, even if the online instructor resides in another state or country. Students reported that they were able to forge professional relationships with local facilities, and gain a better understanding of local geology.