HISTORY AND FUTURE OF GEOLOGY FIELD INSTRUCTION AT THE WHEATON COLLEGE SCIENCE STATION, SOUTH DAKOTA BLACK HILLS

The Wheaton College Science Station in the Black Hills, South Dakota is the western outpost of Wheaton College, Illinois. The program was established in 1935 for undergraduate field instruction in biology and geology. The typical summer program includes the traditional geology-mapping course for geoscience majors along with advanced courses in zoology, botany and ecology for biology majors, and introductory science courses for non-science majors (offered to complete general education requirements). Thus, the scientific community of learners assembled each summer at WCSS is more diverse than at a traditional geology field camp. Advantages include the cross-disciplinary interactions of faculty and majors from different disciplines and the “full emersion” experience for non-science majors taking general education science courses. Non-science majors bring their perspectives and talents to enhance the community experience. The 4-week introductory geology course taught in the field setting is far superior to the equivalent (4 cr. hr.) semester course taught on campus, in terms of meeting assessment outcomes and student satisfaction. The geology major program includes two courses that run concurrently over eight weeks. Studies in Rocky Mountain Regional Geology is a 2 cr. hr. course that pertains to all field trips in the Black Hills region and a “capstone” expedition in the eighth week to Yellowstone country. Students are required to lead field-stop presentations and discussions along the way, keep a journal, and answer study questions. Field Geology is a 6 cr. hr. course that includes traditional and innovative field projects, such as measuring and drafting stratigraphic sections, quantitative analysis of structures, field mapping of various bedrock terranes, and assessment of geologic resources, including surface and groundwater. An important shift in emphasis in the past 20 years is in the application of field methods from resource exploitation to environmental management. GPS and GIS technology is increasing in use and importance in the course, as the technology develops and becomes more affordable. For the future, we wish to introduce courses and experiences for students to use the campus for study and research in sustainable development, drawing on local resources, environmental setting, and culture.