INVOLVING STUDENTS FROM OTHER DISCIPLINES IN GEOLOGICAL RESEARCH

Geology is a unique science in that it incorporates other disciplines such as Physics, Math and Chemistry including the social sciences. Geology classes at a community college are usually occupied by non-geology majors. Involving these students in geological research has to be beneficial to the Physical Sciences and education in general. One way to involve students from other disciplines in geological research is to have them check the work or become involved in the research based on their field of study. The students could earn credit through Independent Study courses.

Ongoing projects could involve business students who could act as a project manager for both cost and personnel. The field personnel would report to the project manager which might simulate an actual working environment. Chemistry students could perform analysis of igneous, sedimentary or metamorphic rocks, surface water and groundwater. Math students can check equations that apply to geophysics. Urban runoff from thunderstorms and flooding has posed serious threats to the environment and human health. A project to analyze flood and storm waters could involve not only geology, meteorology and biology students but also civil engineering, urban planning and business students. History students could be utilized to check the historical records for accuracy.

Student advisors were happy their students were exposed to different academic areas on projects conducted thus far. The students were pleased to be involved in a discipline outside of their own field.