VOLCANO STUDIES IN HAWAII: AN OPPORTUNITY TO EXPOSE GEOLOGY STUDENTS FROM THE SOUTH TO A NEW GEOLOGIC ENVIRONMENT

Tarleton State University periodically offers a 10-day field trip to the island of Hawaii to study the geology of the island. Most students attending the university come from small towns, and many have never had the opportunity to travel. With this field trip, students have the opportunity to travel to an area obviously much different from home, and learn about geology in one of the science’s world-class localities. They have an opportunity to sit in on a staff meeting and briefing of current volcano activity at the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, hike to active lava flows, visit areas of recent historic volcanic activity, tour the Pacific Tsunami Museum, see first-hand the influence of time and weathering in the landscape of the island, and observe a wide range of coastal processes and reef systems in various stages of health. Students gain a real appreciation for the fact that geology has influenced nearly all aspects of island life and culture.

Approximately 60 students have gone on this field trip since it was first offered in 1996. Students from several departments across campus have taken the trip, and many have gained a true appreciation for the island’s geological significance. The trip is currently being revamped. Starting in 2005, the trip will be open to geology students and faculty from across the state of Texas. Students will be expected to read materials and participate in online activities before and after the trip. They will also keep field notebooks and complete assignments while on the island.