BUILDING A FOUNDATION IN GEOSCIENCE EDUCATION: GATHERING EDUCATORS WITH PROFESSIONALS TO CREATE A GEOSCIENCE LITERATE PUBLIC

The geologic community needs to provide appropriate information and resources to K-12 teachers who may have no, or very little, science background (K-5); are trained in another science (6-12 biology, chemistry, or physics) and have to teach Earth science; and teachers who are new to the area or new to teaching and are overwhelmed in learning the geology of such a diverse state. The foundation of education begins in the elementary school (K-5) where the most assistance is needed because teachers are least prepared to teach science. The middle and high school levels (6-12) have a shortage of geologically knowledgeable teachers, and all levels have pressures to teach to the End-of-Grade and End-of-Course tests. Many times geology, science in general, and history get pushed aside because of these pressures. Often rookie teachers get “stuck” teaching Earth Science and do not have the geologic background or teaching experience to provide a quality Earth Science education.

A geoscience literate public is needed to make appropriate decisions regarding health, safety and economy in an era with increasing misinformation and disinformation. Many times K-12 students and teachers do not have the time or ability to thoroughly understand the interconnectedness of geology other than identifying rocks and minerals and learning the layers of the Earth. These students are also ill prepared to be successful in college level science courses. The geoscience community has an opportunity to be involved in crafting the direction of the curricula (National and State (North Carolina)) and to provide educators with age-appropriate resources and educational opportunities as well as discussion, activities, and community participation.