The Use of Information Technology to Enhance Learning in Geological Field Trips

Abstract

Two different approaches to enhance learning in geological field trips by the use of modern technology have been tested on a group of students from Norway on a field trip to SE Utah. The first was to use an advanced flight (field) simulator to help students obtain an overview and understanding of the study area prior to, during and after the field course. In a field simulator, the topography can be covered by several different attributes such as geologic maps, satellite images and aerial photographs in order to allow a comprehensive geological understanding that would be difficult to obtain by other means. In the other approach, the students were provided with digital camera and a portable PC. They worked in groups using problem-based learning methodology (PBL) and documented their acquired knowledge in a standard software presentation program. One of the benefits is that the results with pictures can be presented to the other students the following day. Based on the teachers' experience and feedback from the students, there is little doubt that the two approaches enhance learning. The field simulator facilitates a quicker and fuller geological understanding of a study area whereas the student presentations encourage reflection of the totality of what they have learned.

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