INSTRUCTION AND LEARNING THROUGH FOSSIL COLLECTIONS IN THE GEOLOGY DEPARTMENT: INSPIRED BY MUSEUMS

There has been a recent emphasis on blended learning experiences for undergraduate students, especially within the scope of geoscience and the broad field of STEM. Bemidji State University highly emphasizes education in environmental science and sustainability studies; integrating paleontology instruction would reinforce these programs. Paleontology is both rewarding and exciting and offers a unique opportunity to witness science in action through the lenses of geology, history and biology. Specific to this department’s endeavors, a readily available fossil collection will provide an entry point for students into the broader field. For these purposes, a student-oriented project with a focus on sorting and indexing fossils in the BSU Department of Geology will enhance multifaceted learning.

This project will serve as an experiential learning opportunity specifically for students in Topics in Paleontology (GEOL 3500) while also catering to the learning objectives of Historical Geology (GEOL 21112) laboratory by making samples more accessible. This will be facilitated by the creation of a digital library of Bemidji State University’s fossil specimens to be used by students and instructors. Finally, undergraduate students will design an exhibit to be showcased in the Center for Sustainability Studies that highlights the diversity and span of ancient life through real fossils at our disposal.

The main goals of the program are to:

• catalog previously collected specimens for educational access and display,
• incorporate vertebrate, invertebrate and plant fossil samples more heavily into geology coursework at the university,
• develop curricula that uses paleontology to teach concepts relevant to an interdisciplinary undergraduate education, and
• increase students’ exposure to and familiarity with fossils and paleontology.

Future objectives may include the formation of a fossil club at BSU and seeking paleontological fieldwork opportunities for undergraduate students, while potentially expanding the department’s fossil collection and enhancing accessible content for community outreach.