UNIVERSITY SPECIMEN-BASED DATABASES: THE ESSENTIAL RESOURCE

University’s rock and fossil collections are important resources for students studying Earth Systems. It is essential to use these specimen-based databases so undergraduate students can develop the skills needed to answer scientific questions regarding Earth’s changing climates, paleoenvironments and the evolution of life. In particular, having paleontology collections with high quality, diverse specimens that are meticulously catalogued improves the student experience while meeting learning objectives related to the nature of science. Combining a paleontology collection with a good sedimentary rock collection also provides a more robust resource enhancing the student training to answer big picture questions. Case studies are easily developed from these extensive collections to address the fundamental as well as broad overarching questions in science, such as paleoenvironmental and tectonic changes over time and evolution of fossil fauna. Slippery Rock University received a mineral, rock and fossil collection that consists of reference material and numerous fossil faunal and floral assemblages from unique locations, many that are inaccessible today. Each sample is catalogued with a unique identifier tied to a corresponding ledger. Using these collections in paleontology, stratigraphy and other geology classes is invaluable to student learning as they develop both critical thinking and problem-solving techniques. Eventually the digitization of Slippery Rock University collection will allow students to gain access to a broad set of paleontological data remotely. This is a valuable tool that allows all students access, especially those who are unable to be in the classroom. Maintaining the collections and creating electronic databases will ensure a quality educational experience for students to address important scientific questions.