SUCCESSES AND CHALLENGES OF USING VIRTUAL TECHNOLOGY TO TEACH GEOLOGY FIELD CAMP

Many skills needed to pursue a career in the geosciences are honed during geology field camp experiences: geologic mapping skills, rock identification, recognition of micro- to regional-scale geologic features, conceptualizing feasible geologic histories, as well as interpersonal scientific communication skills. However, field camp is usually offered as a physically demanding, immersive experience and may produce barriers to participation. Technology-enhanced activities granted 24 students from three institutions access to industry professionals and software programs, including Imago and Leapfrog, for our virtual 2020 summer field camp. Due to the online learning platform, this field camp was able to focus and incorporate industry exercises that traditional field camps usually do not have the technology and time for. This provided real job-related experiences and the ability to learn some of the leading industry software. The utilization of these programs, coupled with visualization technology aids such as Minecraft, Google Earth, and augmented reality, allowed the students to grasp core subsurface concepts usually not available in traditional field camps.

Results acquired through coursework and pre/post-surveys revealed that students were able to master traditional field camp skills and concepts in a virtual platform. Student understanding of subsurface industry concepts increased by 20-25%. A mixed-methods approach allowed us to also collect observational data of student interactions and perceptions of the virtual technologies used. The instructors intentionally promoted an inclusive educational environment by allowing students to self-identify how they wanted to be seen by their peers with their avatar identities, not requiring video communication, and guiding a discussion on racism and discrimination within the geosciences. This online learning avenue provides an excellent way to include those with disabilities, life challenges, and other factors that exclude them from succeeding in traditional field camps. Other unique virtual benefits included: less time organizing field logistics, decreased travel time and financial burdens for participants, more time allotted for covering content, and opportunities for directly connecting geology skills to potential career pathways.