Using Field and Laboratory Exercises on Local Water Bodies to Teach Fundamental Concepts in an Introductory Oceanography Course

Abstract

Our introductory oceanography course is designed to introduce students to the interdisciplinary field of oceanography by supplementing traditional classroom offerings with extensive hands-on field and laboratory exercises based primarily on nearby Lake Winnebago. Six weeks of our ten-week fall term are devoted to boat-based field and laboratory exercises, including two weeks on sediments and sedimentary processes, three weeks on chemical and physical limnology and oceanography, and one week on aquatic ecology. These investigative, research-based exercises have improved the learning experience for students by engaging them in the process of solving local geologic problems using data which they have collected themselves. The process of conducting the data collection and analysis, discussing interpretations with peers, and writing a detailed report improves students' comprehension of scientific concepts and provides them with a familiar reference with which to compare concepts presented in lectures or readin...