VISUAL LEARNERS AND GEOSCIENCE EDUCATION

The University of New Mexico, Gallup (UNM-G) branch is located between two Native lands of the Zuni and the Navajo. The student body is nearly 80% Native American, mostly from the Navajo Nation. The majority of our students report that they are visual learners. Our students typically enter the university setting with limited science and math background, but are commonly very cognizant of their environmental setting. With these characteristics of our student population in mind, we have concentrated on presenting Earth Science information in an informal, visual format throughout the campus. Our students are naturally inquisitive about their local and regional environment, and the terrain through which they hike, herd sheep, ride horses, and commute to visit family, friends, and to attend classes. We have emphasized use of the surrounding natural geologic rocks and structures as well as the intrinsic beauty of the Four Corners area to enhance interest in and increase knowledge of the geosciences. Some of the visual displays are accompanied by explanations, and some of those explanations are given in both English and Diné, the language of the Navajo. In the rural area surrounding Gallup, UNM-G represents the focal point for persons interested in higher education. Our student body consists of both non-traditional students returning to college after raising a family, and traditional students whose families are rooted on their Native land. The regional geology, which is such an integral part of the Native American culture, is perhaps most accessible through visual input, accompanied by clear, non-technical descriptions that lend themselves to translation. Many local minerals, rocks and structures are part of Native divination, legends, and remedies. Presentation of the geologic information, particularly in a bilingual format, bridges and blends Native culture with scientific, academic culture.