The Appalachian Geo-STEM Camp: Learning about geology through experiential adventure recreation

Professional Geologist
By: , and 

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Abstract

The inaugural Appalachian Geo-STEM Camp (AGC) was a partnership between West Virginia University (WVU), the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and the West Virginia Geological and Economic Survey (WVGES). Designed to engage high school students in geoscience-oriented Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) activities through adventure-based outdoor recreation, the inaugural AGC took place in June 2018, with its base operations at the WVU Natural Resources Center (NRC), located northeast of Morgantown, West Virginia. The goals of the AGC are to increase the knowledge of the teenaged campers about the geological formations and biodiversity in the region, to acquaint them with geologic mapping technology used by USGS, WVGES, and WVU, and to foster interest in STEM-based careers. Nine students participated, with a cadre from the USGS, WVGES, and WVU teaching lessons in local geology and ecology. Inaugural-year efforts were focused on development and logistics of the camp and what activities best complimented the STEM research. Post-evaluations by the participants were generally favorable. Year-two goals are to fully develop a curriculum, and conduct a thorough pre-camp and post-camp participant survey to quantify learning objectives and guide the sustainability of the effort.

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Publication type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Title The Appalachian Geo-STEM Camp: Learning about geology through experiential adventure recreation
Series title Professional Geologist
Volume 56
Year Published 2019
Language English
Publisher American Institute of Professional Geologists
Contributing office(s) Coastal and Marine Geology Program, Eastern Geology and Paleoclimate Science Center, Eastern Mineral and Environmental Resources Science Center, National Cooperative Geologic Mapping Program, Florence Bascom Geoscience Center
Description 5 p.
First page 27
Last page 31
Country United States
State West Virginia
City Morgantown
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