Learning Goals

  1. Office & Department Directory
  2. Geology Department
  3. Learning Goals

The Geology department’s curriculum is designed to enhance student’s competency in the following areas:

  • Knowledge - Knowledge of fundamental and emerging concepts in geology;
  • Retention and Integration – Ability to retain and integrate concepts from various classes;
  • Critical Thinking - Ability to evaluate the quality of various data sources and to use this data when comparing competing theories or ideas;
  • Data Collection Skills –  Ability to collect defensible data relevant to the geosciences;
  • Quantitative Skills –  Ability to analyze and interpret a variety of data sets;
  • Communication Skills – Ability to make and effectively present professional level oral and written presentations;
  • Technical Skills – Experience with a range of analytical equipment;
  • Computing Proficiency – Experience and use of computer and relevant software;
  • Literature Familiarity and Use –  Ability to find, critical evaluate, and properly cite papers, books, maps, reports, web-sites, and other sources of information;
  • Independent and Collaborative Work and Thought – Ability to work alone or in groups on a variety of projects;
  • Awareness of Ethics in Science – Understanding and practice of ethics as it relates to scientific endeavors and professions; and
  • Importance of Geology – A thorough understanding of the importance of the profession of geology to human health and well-being.