Oleh: Dasapta Erwin Irawan (Google Scholar)

Teaching methods in geology are crucial for shaping understanding and appreciation of this scientific field. They engage students and foster curiosity about Earth’s dynamic nature. By using innovative methods like hands-on activities, fieldwork, and technology, educators inspire students to explore and understand geological features and processes. These methods also develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and interdisciplinary skills, preparing students for careers in environmental science, engineering, and resource exploration.

Here are five out-of-the-box ideas to develop higher education in geology:

1. Integrate geology with other disciplines: Geology is a multidisciplinary field that can be integrated with other disciplines such as engineering, environmental science, and geography. By integrating geology with other fields, students can gain a broader perspective and develop skills that are applicable to a wider range of careers.
2. Use virtual reality and augmented reality: Virtual reality and augmented reality technologies can be used to create immersive learning experiences that allow students to explore geological features and processes in a more interactive and engaging way.
3. Develop citizen science projects: Citizen science projects can be developed to engage students in real-world geology research. For example, students can collect data on geological features in their local area and contribute to a larger research project.
4. Create geology-themed escape rooms: Escape rooms are a popular way to engage students in problem-solving and critical thinking. By creating geology-themed escape rooms, students can learn about geological processes and features while having fun.
5. Use gamification: Gamification can be used to make learning more engaging and interactive. For example, students can play geology-themed games that teach them about geological processes and features.

These ideas can help to make geology education more engaging, interactive, and relevant to students’ lives. By incorporating these ideas into higher education programs, students can develop a deeper understanding of geology and its applications in the real world.

Summarized from these sources:

1. https://igws.indiana.edu/outreach/additional/4H/4-H_GeolHelperGuide.pdf
2. https://www.americangeosciences.org/change/pdfs/Vision-Change-Geosciences.pdf
3. https://www.nap.edu/read/13165/chapter/9
4. https://www.dnr.wa.gov/geology-education-and-outreach
5. https://flc.losrios.edu/academics/programs-and-majors/geology
6. https://www.oecd.org/education/skills-beyond-school/AHELOFSReportVolume1.pdf