CREATING A MODULAR SYSTEM TO INCREASE ACCESSIBILITY OF DIGITAL EDUCATIONAL ASSETS AT GEOLOGIC SITES OF INTEREST

This project is centered around creating a modular system to aid in deploying digital assets in the field at remote geologic sites of interest. The system consists of three parts: (1) a single board computer to drive wireless and webpage access, (2) a battery to power the system, and (3) a renewable energy source to charge the battery. Several single board computers were analyzed for performance across multiple constraints - the battery and solar panel specifications were controlled. The systems were outlined and analyzed in a simulation that models the system’s solar performance in varying field conditions as well as user load onto the system. Field performance tests that monitor power characteristics were performed to assess the system efficiency. All single board computer options run a flavor of linux with a standard web server and wireless responsible for distributing the webpages. This system was developed to be tested in an initial target field location: The Saucon Rail Trail within The Allentown Formation near Bethlehem, PA. As an enhancement to existing research and signage, a website detailing outcrops on this trail was redesigned to increase site educational accessibility based on the trail demographic - parents & children. Through use of the model system, a cached version of the website is delivered to any device that has WiFi connection capability. This method has a three-pronged impact: (1) those with disabilities who require specialized devices (e.g., other than cell phones with cellular service capabilities) to access information can access the webpage with said devices; (2) children with kid-friendly devices (e.g., Leap Pad Learning Tablet, iPod Touch, Kindle, etc.) can access the webpage; and (3) the webpage can be accessed in a specified area with no cellular service available (e.g., remote geologic sites of interest). Deployment of the most efficient modular system will have broad application to field learning accessibility in a variety of remote field settings.

Session No. 81--Booth# 311

T140. New Tools in the Geologist’s Toolbelt: Using Technology to Educate and Inspire Others about Geology (Posters)

Sunday, 22 October 2017: 9:00 AM-5:30 PM

Halls 4EF (Washington State Convention Center)

Geological Society of America Abstracts with Programs. Vol. 49, No. 6
doi: 10.1130/abs/2017AM-304780

© Copyright 2017 The Geological Society of America (GSA), all rights reserved. Permission is hereby granted to the author(s) of this abstract to reproduce and distribute it freely, for noncommercial purposes. Permission is hereby granted to any individual scientist to download a single copy of this electronic file and reproduce up to 20 paper copies for noncommercial purposes advancing science and education, including classroom use, providing all reproductions include the complete content shown here, including the author information. All other forms of reproduction and/or transmittal are prohibited without written permission from GSA Copyright Permissions.

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