There are examples of using stones of the cultural heritage for teaching purposes. Information systems have found several potential uses in the promotion and preservation of cultural heritage. In this paper is considered the conceptual framework of an information system concerning features of geological interest (FGI) in the built heritage…

The use of interactive virtual expeditions in classroom learning environments is an effective means to engage learners in understanding science as an inquiry process, infusing current research and relevant science into the classroom, and positively affecting learner attitudes towards science as a process and a career. A comparative analysis of the…

In 1990, a group of geologists discovered a large number of shatter cones in southwestern Montana. Shatter cones are a type of metamorphosed rock often found in impact structures (the remains of a crater after a meteor impact and years of Earth activity). Scientists have discovered only 168 impact craters around the world. If rocks could talk,…

Describes a computer program which represents the first merger of an expert system and imaging technology into a tool to assist in learning mineral identification. Presents a discussion of the system's development, evaluation of effectiveness, and future modifications. (RT)

Describes a study on the performance of Internet notes and PowerPoint lecture slides in a physical geology course and compares it with the traditional lecturing method. (Contains 12 references.) (YDS)

Discusses the need to take into account the effects of arrested fractional crystallization in the petrographic classification of volcanic rocks containing plagioclase phenocrysts. Describes the development and use of a computer program to accomplish this task graphically. (TW)

Provides directions for interfacing the Lehman seismograph through an analog/digital converter. Discusses potential modifications and applications of this approach. (ML)

Advocates a computer-controlled x-ray diffractometer as an inexpensive analytical tool that is easy to use and applicable to a wide range of geological problems. Both qualitative and quantitative experiments are possible. Exercises can easily be customized to local geology. Ideal for small departments with limited resources for providing hands-on…

Discusses the use of interactive computer-assisted lab exercises that combine text, graphics, and simple animation. Students use these self-paced applications to test their level of comprehension, identify their misconceptions, and seek explanatory information. Benefits include consistency in teaching and evaluation, and the ability to link with…

Described is a software package, "Trapeze," within which a routine called LinDis can be used. Discussed are teaching methods, the linear discriminant model and equations, the LinDis worksheet, and an example. The set up for this routine is included. (CW)

Describes an exercise for a lecture class that breaks the monotony of note taking and requires active student thought and participation. Helps students grasp the idea of geologic time as it relates to the erosion of a prominent local landmark, Massanutten Mountain. (Author/SAH)

Spreadsheets are well suited to many geochemical calculations, especially those that are highly repetitive. Some of the kinds of problems that can be conveniently solved with spreadsheets include elemental abundance calculations, equilibrium abundances in nuclear decay chains, and isochron calculations. (Author/PR)

Describes a deterministic computer model that incorporates: (1) initial framework composition; (2) abrasion factors for quartz, feldspar, and rock fragments; and (3) a fragmentation ratio for rock fragments to simulate the recycling of coastal sands by rivers and beaches. (TW)

Describes a computer program written in Microsoft BASIC for use on personal computers to calculate travel times of refracted waves in layered structures with arbitrary dipping interfaces. Exercises for student use are given to illustrate some of the basic properties of reversed refraction travel time graphs. (TW)

Describes how the graphics capabilities of the Apple Macintosh computer can be used in geological teaching by customizing fill patterns with lithologic symbols. Presents two methods for doing this: creating a dummy document, or by changing the pattern resource resident in the operating system. Special symbols can also replace fonts. (TW)