Describes an informal experiemnt designed to compare an eighth grade earth science class in an open learning environment to traditional classes. "Open environment" students gained about the same number of points on an earth science cognitive test as the "traditional" students. The individual activities of students in the open class and the…

Describes a self-paced geology course utilizing a diversity of instructional techniques, including maps, models, samples, audio-visual materials, and a locally developed laboratory manual. Mechanical features are laboratory exercises, followed by unit quizzes; quizzes are repeated until the desired level of competence is attained. (Author/JN)

Describes a course in which students analyze man-made materials utilizing mineralogical facts and techniques. Discusses course content, teaching methods, and course evaluation. (MA)

Describes objectives, instructional methods, and operation of a field trip program for an undergraduate geology course. (CP)

Describes an instructional format for introductory undergraduate earth science in which students work in small groups on topics of interest in earth science-related fields. (CP)

Describes an introductory physical geology laboratory which uses a semiself-paced, semiprogramed format involving weekly units, a weekly quiz, learning booklets, and undergraduate teaching assistants. Includes outline of weekly topics and a sample excerpt from the learning booklet. (DC)

Describes a special topics program which allows students some choice in content to be studied. Topics include Continental Drift and Ice Ages, Geology and National Parks, the Coast of South Carolina, and Medical Geology. Student evaluations indicate positive attitudes towards the program. (MA)

Describes and provides evaluation of a one semester minicourse curriculum for undergraduate earth science instruction. (CP)

Described is a course designed to teach the intellectual methods of science while also fostering the development of mature, critical, and skeptical thinking students. Discussed are the course syllabus, teaching philosophy and techniques, and observed results. (CW)

Reviews the objectives, themes, and content of a series of five color videotapes on volcanic rock textures. Explains how the tapes, which integrate petrographic observations of textures with computer graphics, can be used in undergraduate and graduate level courses. (ML)

Self-paced and lecture versions of a general geology course were taught by the same instructor using identical exams and nearly identical instructional materials. No significant differences were found in apparent scholastic abilities, exam results, or levels of satisfaction with the course. Enrollment was notably higher in the lecture version.…

Describes an introductory geology course for non-science majors that focuses on problem solving and group dynamics at The Ohio State University. Reviews its format and contents and compares it with other course options for non-science majors. Includes evaluative comments and provides a listing of group studies project topics. (ML)

Described is a two-course sequence dealing with the origin and evolution of the entire natural system including the universe, solar system, earth, and life. The content, suggestions about teacher preparation, teaching techniques, and testing are discussed. (CW)

Discussed are general considerations for educating visually impaired students including planning, testing, lecture/discussion, field trips, and laboratory activities. Fourteen activities that have been adapted are described. One such undergraduate course is described. (CW)

Describes a method of integrating a course syllabus with a field geological inventory of the surrounding area. Consists of three modules, each with a preparatory unit, field trip, and summary unit. Discusses first hand experiences, learning cycles, novelty factors, and moving from the concrete to abstract. (MVL)