INTRODUCING THE PRINCIPLES AND PROCESS OF IMAGING DEEP AND SHALLOW EARTH THROUGH REFLECTION SEISMOLOGY: AN EDUCATIONAL OUTREACH PROJECT

As part of a National Science Foundation-funded project on deep seismic reflection profiling, we organized a DVD/video presentation and an educational poster for K-12 school application. This project communicates the excitement of “seeing” into the earth's lower crust and upper mantle using sound waves, as one might use ultra-sound to image an unborn child. Using a light and captivating approach, the DVD/video gives an introduction to the field of geophysics and emphasizes career possibilities and applications in geophysics. The DVD/video includes shots filmed and captured on location from seismic reflection surveys in different environments and from geology labs and field trips organized by Brigham Young University. We take good advantage of Utah's spectacular geology by including scenic clips and panoramic pictures from areas such as the Wasatch Front and Southern Utah's canyon lands to help portray the “layers” of rocks we can see around us, and how this relates to the deep geology beneath us. Following a preface using digital graphics that describe the earth's structure, tectonic movement, earthquakes, followed by the use of sound waves in imaging, we narrate critical data acquisition and processing steps involved in seismic interpretation. Critical data steps addressed are: how scientists create energy waves, seismograph and geophone data recording, frequency filtering, and shallow to deep seismic interpretation. Using some simple animations and digital graphics all steps are presented visually and are described for the layperson. The DVD/video is designed for high school-level application; the educational poster, however, is geared towards elementary-level application. The poster is based on the media presentation with additional interactive activities and stories to teach the geophysical principles of reflection seismology. This project is unique in that is was made by students for students. Digital copies of both the DVD/video and educational poster will be publicly available for incorporation into general science programs.