INTEGRATING DIVERSE TECHNOLOGY PLATFORMS INTO GEOLOGIC FIELD AND LABORATORY COURSES

Diverse technological platforms are capable of enhancing learning opportunities, but they may also quickly become a distraction to core education objectives. This research investigates two lines of applied technologies in undergraduate field and laboratory work. For the past 10 years, the University of Northern (UNI) Iowa’s Dept. of Earth and Environmental Sciences has sought effective means of increasing its students’ geospatial reasoning and 21^st century skills. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) thinking and applied skills are continuing to be a powerful tool for learning and research. GIS has been embedded into a variety of, Earth and Environmental Sciences, classes: grades 6-12^th (summer workshops), Intro. to Geology, upper-level Geology and post graduate/teacher professional development. Successes have ranged from enhanced topographic perceptions, ability to accurately collect field samples to a greater understanding of the importance of effectively communication geologic data.

Recent University of Northern Iowa geochemistry/laboratory upgrades (XRD, XRF and ICP-MS), now provide opportunities for the second line of technological/education inquiry. These new analytical machines offer new pathways of discovery towards understanding minerals, rocks, water and ceramics; as well as opportunities to explore the inter-relationships between environmental and cultural material. A new geologic laboratory methods course (Spring 2018) guides students through proper safety measures, physical and chemical laboratory techniques, identifying technique advantages and disadvantages and effective communication of scientific research.