Balancing Teaching and Learning Geology on the Writing Fulcrum

Abstract

Incorporating writing into the geology curriculum is beneficial not only because writing is an essential skill for geologists, but also because writing is a process that promotes learning. The use of a variety of writing assignments emphasizing critical-thinking skills is important. In one assignment that encourages productive study habits, our students are asked to write questions and corresponding answers for collation into a class study guide for exams. Reaction papers following guest lectures heighten awareness of research and service in the field of geology. In short papers, students describe and interpret rock samples and outcrops and summarize a journal article. Position papers on controversial issues stimulate class discussion and increase student awareness of the complexity of environmental issues. To promote more effective student learning about writing, several short assignments are given and students turn in multiple drafts and use peer review. Writing several times during the term allows stud...