HR: 0800h
AN: ED31A-0085    [Abstracts]
TI: Bringing Geology to a Community: The Benefits of USing Interpretive Signs in a Self-Guided Tour
AU: * Crowley, B E
EM: bcrowley@pmc.ucsc.edu
AF: University of California, Santa Cruz, Department of Anthropology 1156 High st., Santa Cruz, CA 95064, United States
AB: Geology is often missing in education settings. However, this science is key to understanding natural history and ecology. Without some knowledge of geologic processes, it is extremely difficult to comprehend how ecosystems work or how fragile an environment can be. To fully grasp these concepts, an interested person needs more than abstract concepts and self-contained examples. He or she needs to be exposed to the use of a domain's conceptual tools in authentic activity. Likewise, to understand natural processes, it is absolutely imperative to observe them in action. It is difficult to understand coastal processes, such as waves interacting with a beach, by reading a book. It is much easier to understand these concepts by learning about them and interacting with them simultaneously. Through an NSF-funded fellowship on informal education, the author has developed a self-guided walking tour that is designed to introduce geologic processes to school groups, families, and individuals. The guide, which is based at Seabright Beach, Santa Cruz, CA, a popular destination for both locals and visitors, uses inquiry and directed questioning. The beach boasts excellent examples of coastal processes and has an exciting and dynamic history. Pilot observations indicate that participants have had rewarding experiences using the guide, that they are excited to share their new knowledge, and that they have successfully been able to apply what they have learned about coastal processes at Seabright to other beaches.
UR: http://www.pmc.ucsc.edu/~bcrowley/Seabright.html
DE: 9800 GENERAL OR MISCELLANEOUS
SC: Education and Human Resources [ED]
MN: 2007 Fall Meeting