FLOATING HIGHER -- THRIVING AS THE SOLE GEOLOGIST

Thirty two years of teaching in a science department characterized by tribal allegiances has taught me a few lessons on how to thrive as the sole geologist. I’ve become dependent upon participation in a few professional societies and organizations: Northeast GSA, Eastern Section of NAGT, the annual Field Conference of Pennsylvania Geologists, and the Philadelphia Geological Society. In particular the workshops and resources of the Science Education Resource Center (SERC) have been critical in developing effective instructional activities. Within my college I became invested in governance and function as a way of infusing myself and the geosciences within the larger institution. This has included regular meetings with advisors and counselors, ongoing service on committees and task forces, and participation and presentation within our professional development infrastructure. I’ve always viewed these activities not as burdensome contractual obligations but rather opportunities to not only learn from others but also to inform others about what I’ve been doing in the geosciences. Finally I’ve participated early in endeavors deemed important by the administration. These have included early integration of active learning and computer-mediated instruction, early development of online and non-traditional course delivery, and collaboration with a regional National Heritage Area.