Earth Science Research
Project
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Earth Science Research
Project
|
REVISED December 18, 2012
Mission Statement Our mission is to enhance the research and field experience of earth science teachers at the secondary level. We do this by offering workshops and classes for Earth Science Teachers to learn research approaches for field studies and to undertake independent research projects which usually emphasize field studies. Why Do Research? In order to enhance class room lectures and laboratory exercises, and to develop research projects for students it is vital that teachers have research experience, especially in the field. Research experience provides teachers with hands-on experience that they can use to help better explain earth science concepts in class. Also, doing research is doing science. We allow high school teachers to teach science, even though any many cases they have not practiced science. We would not expect a music teacher to teach music who did not play an instrument or sing, or a basketball coach to coach basketball who had never played basketball. It is also essential that teachers feel comfortable taking students on field trips. Considering that geology, meteorology and astronomy are encountered as soon as you step outside the school building, whenever possible we encourage teachers to develop research projects and science walks close to or on their school grounds. In order to take advantage of the opportunities for research in the local area it is essential that teachers and students become more aware of their geologic surroundings. The first step in obtaining basic data is a geological survey using topographic maps, air photos and field observations. With this information it is possible to develop field trips and science walks which will increase the interest of both the teachers and students in their natural surroundings. Field trips and science walks also show how the Earth Sciences relate to biology, chemistry and physics. Earth Science teachers and students together can do the surveys and develop the field trips and science walks. We are developing science walks on the Stony Brook Campus that can be used as prototypes for science walks that can be developed in your community. Who are We? The Earth Science Research Project under the direction of Prof. Gilbert N. Hanson is one of a number of outreach efforts for Earth Science teachers and students within the Department of Geosciences. |
GEO 589 Research for Earth Science Teachers
This course is intended to provide Earth Science teachers or graduate
students in Earth Science Education an opportunity to obtain research
experience oriented to Earth Science education. The products of 3
credits of research are a written research report with a science walk
or drive that can be appreciated by the general public or a lesson plan on
the subject. The product of a 1 credit research product is a science walk or
drive that can be appreciated by the general public.
E-mail is gilbert.hanson@sunysb.edu |
