PALEOVIEW3D.ORG: AN EXAMPLE OF SCIENCE EDUCATION THROUGH THE DEVELOPMENT OF AN OPEN ACCESS PALEONTOLOGICAL DATA RESOURCE

We have successfully implemented a program to mentor and train students through employment in a technologically advanced paleontological research project. PaleoView3D.org is an on-line museum that includes both 3D models and 2D images of Paleogene mammals. Focal taxa are from the late Paleocene and early Eocene and provide the raw data for studies of faunal change associated with the rapid global warming during the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum. Data were acquired with a high precision laser scanner, and the resulting models can be downloaded or viewed in either 2D or 3D.

Directly engaging students in research provides them with unique opportunities, increases retention in the sciences, and boosts individual economic potential. These are especially relevant in socioeconomically disadvantaged states such as West Virginia. Even at Marshall University, the second largest institution of higher learning in the state, students are typically from rural communities with inadequate high school systems, and over 70% of the student body are first generation college students. Employment of students through projects like PaleoView3D provides not only direct job training but is an effective means to introduce and reinforce concepts of evolution and deep time.

The majority of this project was implemented by 12 undergraduate to MS level students. The skill sets developed by these students included library research, web authoring, database design, laser scanning, writing and testing laboratory protocols, and 3D model and 2D image production using a variety of engineering and imaging software. In additional to group lab-based teaching experiences and discussion, peer learning was a key element. We also created opportunities for them to take part in the wider scientific community by visiting major museums and attending and presenting at scholarly and industrial meetings. By designing a project with multiple components that could draw upon different skill sets, we were able to engage students from a wide variety of majors, in this case including biology, computer science, art, and archaeology. Educational opportunities and hands on exposure to science such as this is crucial for the development of a scientifically literate population.