A STEM BASED APPROACH FOR TEACHING GEOPHYSICS UTILIZING SOUND FILES

A presentation has been prepared in which seismic signals mathematically translated into another form of acoustic wave, sound, can be utilized in geoscience pedagogies. The science of geophysics is integral to a number of disciplines, industries and technologies. Geophysical signaling is also important in the petroleum industry, archeology, mineral prospection, hydrology, and in the assessment of seismic hazards. Most introductory geology programs do not include geophysics as part of the curriculum, or only do so in a cursory manner. Earthquakes are discussed in introductory courses as part of geological hazards but rarely are the mechanisms behind earthquake analyses presented. Researchers have used computer programs to translate the entire gamut of seismic waves into auditory signals: sound files that are perceptible to the range of human hearing. These files, while valuable in seismic and geophysical research, can also be utilized for geoscience education. As interactive media the files are potentially useful in K-12 STEM pedagogies concerning geoscience, physics and mathematics.