Currently, the students are asked to undertake a collaborative term project that requires that they gather and interpret geologic data independently of the classroom meeting. The challenge for the design of the project was to tailor it such that 800 students could undertake the project simultaneously. Because this is a geology project, student groups are asked to geologically observe and report some aspect of their local community. The groups must submit a project proposal, a progress report, an abstract, and present their final results orally using some form of graphics (slides, video, maps, sketches). All of the written materials are returned and resubmits are required. All of the work must be done using a word processor--typed copy is not acceptable. We have been collecting the final materials on diskette but have found that too many different processors are used. In the future, I will probably ask that all writing be done using Microsoft Word.
The collaborative term projects have several purposes:
Beginning fall term, 1995, I plan to begin using a commercially available interactive CD-ROM on plate tectonics during the introductory laboratory exercises (first 8 weeks). Thereafter, I would like to acquire a similar exercise introducing topographic maps. These exercises will also be given as out of class assignments and will use Derring 2069 as a source for the CD-ROMs. This assignment has been delayed because I still need to acquire more funds to purchase additional CD's.
For additional information on this innovation: bekken@vt.edu