This paper describes how plate tectonics and rock genesis, two topics that are typically addressed separately in secondary Earth science classes, can be taught together as an integrated system. We define the TecRocks Reasoning Framework, developed to support student reasoning about rock formation situated in the context of plate tectonics. We also…

The vast extent to which quantitative prerequisites vary among post-secondary geoscience programs often presents a challenge for educators and students alike in courses for which math and physics are foundational. This study discusses the design of GEOAppS, a suite of educational numerical models, and its application toward lowering the…

Creating effective computer-based learning exercises requires an understanding of optimal user interface designs for improving higher order cognitive skills. Using an online volcanic crisis simulation previously shown to improve decision making skill, we find that a user interface using a graphical presentation of the volcano monitoring data…

A series of three investigations are developed utilizing earthquake data and a calculator system with a card reader, X-Y plotter and printout device. The investigations involve determining the spatial distribution of earthquake hypocenters with the goal of having students work with realistic data. (DF)

Computers are used to assist in teaching a first year course in introductory general geology to non-specialists. The course does not use traditional lecturing. (Df)

Time-sharing computer-assisted instructional (CAI) programs employing the APL language are being used in support of introductory earth science laboratory exercises at the State University of New York at Binghamton. Three examples are sufficient to illustrate the variety of applications to which these programs are put. The BRACH program is used in…

Describes a learning activity when students construct a model of a buried valley by using computer assistance. Explanation of the problem includes mathematical models and illustrations. (MA)

Describes a computer assisted program designed to aid students in detailed description/identification of igneous rocks. (SL)

THE FOLLOWING IS THE FULL TEXT OF THIS DOCUMENT (Except for the Evaluation Summary Table): VERSION: 1.4E. PRODUCER: Earthware Computer Services, P.O. Box 30039, Eugene, OR 07403. EVALUATION COMPLETED: June 1982 by staff of NWREL and constituents of the Alaska Department of Education. COST: $49.50. ABILITY LEVEL: Secondary and College. SUBJECT:…

The author has rewritten rules for CIPW norm calculation and has written FORTRAN IV programs to assist the student in this procedure. Includes a set of problems utilizing the CIPW norm to illustrate principles of chemical petrology. (MA)

Presents a computer game which assists in learning the classification of igneous rocks and a simulation program which illustrates some aspects of igneous textures. (SL)

Described is a computer program used to calculate d-spacings (corrected for film shrinkage) and a weighting factor for measurements made on a Debye-Scherrer film. Two purposes are listed for the computer program: time reduction and increase of computer competance. (Author/DS)

This computer simulation is designed to put students into a realistic decision making situation in mineral exploration. This program can be used with different exploration situations such as ore deposits, petroleum, ground water, etc. (MR)