EXPANDING THE BOUNDARIES OF THE CLASSROOM: SELF-GUIDED MUSEUM ACTIVITIES BRING EARTH SCIENCE CONCEPTS TO LIFE

As the number of students enrolled in introductory-level geology courses continues to increase every year, the challenges associated with engaging those students increase as well. Large class numbers make field trips nearly impossible, and make even classroom demonstrations challenging to convey adequately. As a result, in-class learning may be limited to abstract concepts and ideas from books and class lectures.

Self-guided activities at local museums can reinforce lecture material by allowing students to examine the material in a more dynamic format. Beautiful mineral samples, cryptic ancient fossils, and large-scale models of dinosaurs bring concepts and ideas to life and foster students’ general curiosity. Interactive displays create opportunities for students to experience concepts described in text or lecture format.

We present four self-guided activities based on exhibits at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City and the Rutgers University Geology Museum in New Brunswick, New Jersey. These activities were designed to coincide with the courses “Introduction to Geology” and “Dinosaurs;” however, they can be modified or expanded upon to align with any introductory geology course. A set of questions and a numbered map guide students throughout the museums’ exhibits, emphasizing content covered in classroom lectures. Whether presented as required or extra credit assignments, these activities encourage students to apply knowledge learned in the classroom in an informal setting. Materials are available upon request.