USING AN INTERNET-BASED HELP SITE WITH GIS-GENERATED IMAGES TO ENHANCE STUDENT UNDERSTANDING OF LABORATORY EXERCISES

An important component of laboratory exercises in Physical Geology is the use of maps and aerial images to identify and analyze geologic features. Students are introduced to maps and aerial images early in the course, but learn to use them as they complete lab exercises on specific topics. "Learning by doing" can be very effective, but it can also be frustrating as students struggle to interpret new terminology, especially as it refers to features on maps and images. Identifying commonly encountered difficulties and addressing those with internet-based help pages can increase student success. Difficult questions were identified based on graded lab exercises and student surveys. Help pages were developed using and html editing program and include a series of GIS-generated layouts of topographic maps and aerial images with overlays and explanatory text. Successful student completion of lab exercises has improved significantly since this help site was added to the course.