DEVELOPING INCLUSIVE FIELD EXPERIENCES IN PALEONTOLOGY AND ECOLOGY: EXAMPLES FROM A SMALL LIBERAL ARTS SETTING

Fieldwork is a vital component of both paleontology and ecology, offering students essential skills and practical knowledge that are crucial for success in these disciplines. Hands-on field experiences not only provide academic training to excel in the classroom, but also enhance leadership, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills that are invaluable during college and in students’ post-graduate lives. However, field experiences can sometimes be daunting or negative experiences for students due to various reasons, including financial constraints, social and cultural barriers, and physical accessibility issues.

In this talk, I will discuss some challenges I have encountered in diverse field settings during my time as a student and as an early-career professional. I will also share approaches and strategies I have implemented and plan to continue refining to create field experiences that are inclusive, safe, and enjoyable for both me and my students. Some examples of effective practices for fostering safe and inclusive fieldwork include: asking questions about students’ comfort level outdoors in the pre-surveys administered at the beginning of the semester to avoid making assumptions, clearly communicating expectations well in advance and providing detailed guidance on how to prepare for fieldwork, such as recommended attire, field safety protocols, and access to amenities like restrooms. By adopting these and other strategies, I aim to make field experiences positive and engaging for all participants.