FIELD TRIPS - THEIR IMPORTANCE IN AN UNDERGRADUATE GENERAL EDUCATION DISTANCE LEARNING GEOLOGY COURSE

Students enrolled in an independent study distance education course do not have the benefit of attending class field trips. An independent field trip has been required of students enrolled in Southern Utah University’s Geology 1013 Earth Systems distance learning course since 1997. This course is typically taken by students who need to complete the physical science general education requirement but cannot attend an on-campus section due to other commitments. Recommended field trip sites include any national or state monument or park but other sites are acceptable if prior approval is obtained from the instructor. Students are required to furnish proof of their field trip, either through inclusion of a photograph of themselves on site, or a dated receipt showing payment of park entrance fees. Field trips have ranged from Gettysburg National Military Park in Pennsylvania to Haleakala National Park in Hawaii, but 50% of the field trips have been to Zion National Park, the closest year-round park to Southern Utah University. Reports must include a summary of the geology, but students are encouraged to personalize their report by concentrating on topics that interest them. These topics have included archeology, history, hiking, rock climbing, and ranger activities for children. Report summaries often include a statement that the field trip ties the course together for the student and is one of the most enjoyable parts of the course.