YOUR COMMUNITY COLLEGE; A RICH RESERVOIR OF POTENTIAL GEOSCIENCE STUDENTS

Based on current trends, future demand for trained geoscientists will far outpace the rate of graduating students majoring in geology. A core issue is the need to increase the potential pool of undergraduates in geosciences programs. One possible solution is the often untapped source of community college students. The REU’s Missouri River mapping project, or The Big Muddy Experience, is an effective recruitment tool that can be successfully aimed at the community college student. The program pairs community college students, whose geology classes are often limited to basic introductory geology classes, with upper level university students whose geology background is more extensive. The program exposes them to a broader and more comprehensive level of field work than is usually available community college level. Students are introduced to an experience that integrates the scientific theory, mapping, computer skills, field applications, oral presentations and peer review. The student acquires a working understanding of river morphology as they participate in the surficial mapping of the Missouri flood plain. The environment fosters a collaborative atmosphere that allows a free exchange of ideas and the ability to interact with university geology students who can further expose the community college student to the opportunistic benefits of choosing geology as a major. In addition to the educational objectives being met, the project serves to excite the students as they partake in real life geological field work stimulating an ongoing interest and a possible future in the geological profession. Thus far, the program has recruited at least three students to the UTA geology program, as well as retaining students already entrenched in the geosciences. The community college is a rich reservoir of students who, with the additional exposure to the geological world that The Big Muddy Experience provides, could ultimately help resolve the growing need for professionally trained geologists in the future.