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Earth Science, BS

Student Outcomes

Assessment of Student Outcomes

Outcome M Geologic Reasoning

This student learning outcome applies to all three of our programs: Geology (including the environmental geology emphasis), Geology-Chemistry, and Earth Science.
Students will be able to demonstrate the ability to apply geologic reasoning to interpret geologic data.

Objective 1 To show learning gains in understanding fundamental geological processes both in the Earth's interior, on its surface and through geologic time.

Measure 2

2018 Status
Achieved
After completing GEO 320 which is a required course for Earth Science majors, the students' average score was 83% correct on questions based on misconceptions about river flow and stream erosion.

Outcome N Proficiency with Topographic and Geologic Maps

This SLO applies to our Geology program (including the environmental emphasis),
Geology majors are proficient at reading and using topographic and geologic maps.
Geology majors are proficient at using geospatial/geoscience tools and methods to evaluate and quantitatively analyze geologic and topographic data.


Objective 1 Most Geology majors in early majors' courses can effectively use a variety of common spatial/quantitative tools used by geoscientists.

Measure 1

2019 Status
Achieved
Please see pdf

2018 Status
Achieved
Students make substantial learning gains in three dimensional thinking and data analysis throughout the course.

Outcome O Teacher Certification Success

(For Earth Science Majors)
Earth Science majors with a Secondary Education focus earn passing scores on the standardized Michigan Test for Teacher Certification (MTTC) and overall their scores show improvement over time.
Objective 1 Most Earth Science majors seeking Teacher Certification can pass the MTTC on the first attempt.

Measure 1

2018 Status
Achieved
For the last year four of our majors took the exam. All four passed the exam on the first try (100%).

Outcome P Learning Outside Classroom

Increase the participation of majors in a significant professional/learning experience outside of the classroom.
Department faculty will work on developing resources and the best venues for sharing resources with students. Resources will be shared informally and in the context of some courses.
Objective 1 Improve on-line resources, structures, advising and opportunities that encourage and foster student participation in significant professional/learning experiences outside the classroom.

Measure 1

2018 Status
Achieved
All Geology courses require the application of the scientific method. From these courses faculty regularly recruit students for high impact learning activities and research projects. Also all geology courses include some form of high impact teaching in the required coursework.

Outcome Q Global International Learning

Increase student opportunities for global and international learning in all three programs
Objective 1 Incorporate more global learning opportunities for students through field trips, curriculum, and on-line collaboration.

Measure 1

2018 Status
Achieved
Almost all Geology courses have at least one field trip or cruise requirement. Plus all faculty are actively engaged in mentoring students in scientific research.

Outcome T Scientific Reasoning

Proficient understanding of the fundamental principles defining the nature of science, and geological sciences in particular.
Objective 1 Proficient understanding of the fundamental principles defining the nature of science, and geological sciences in particular.

Measure 1

2018 Status
Achieved
Most students taking an introductory course in Geology gain a college level understanding of the methods and nature of science. Greater than 30% are proficient with or have mastered these concepts in this course.