SIMPLE DEMONSTRATIONS FOR EARTH SCIENCE

Geology is a visual science based in theory but best learned by observing natural processes and products. Because many geological processes and features are not readily observable in local regions, some departments teaching earth science struggle to insure students fully understand concepts. Lecture and laboratory demonstrations assist students to develop intuitive understandings of scientific principles found in earth science. Thus, demonstrations increase long-term student learning. A variety of interesting demonstrations for earth science lecture or laboratory are exhibited during this presentation. To promote availability to all interested faculty, an internet site has been developed with directions for construction and/or use of demonstrations that are generally inexpensive, safe, and easy to use. These demonstrations are not restricted for use to any one grade level; most faculty will find them easily adaptable to a variety of students. The authors do not claim to have invented the demonstrations as much as hope to create a clearinghouse for these types of educational tools.