California State University, San Bernardino, Department of Geological Sciences
GOALS AND OBJECTIVES FOR GEOLOGY MAJORS
Program Learning Outcome 1:
Apply knowledge of geologic materials (e.g., minerals, rocks, fossils, water) and of structural and geomorphic features, as well as concepts from geology and related disciplines (e.g., math, physics, chemistry, biology) to interpret Earth processes and history, including plate tectonics, the rock cycle, the hydrologic cycle, the carbon cycle and the evolution of life.
Program Learning Outcome 2:
Read, interpret, construct and use geologic maps, stratigraphic columns, cross-sections and block diagrams to visualize geologic relations in the four dimensions of space and time.
Program Learning Outcome 3:
Apply scientific modes of knowledge-creation to geological problems: Make observations and measurements; accurately describe patterns; develop justifiable interpretations; distinguish between observations and interpretation; put disparate pieces of information together in context; use coherent, logical reasoning.
Program Learning Outcome 4:
Use instruments for collecting field data, such as surveying instruments, Global Positioning System Transceivers, Brunton Transits, Jacob's Staffs; use laboratory instruments and equipment, such as an X-ray diffraction instrument, petrographic microscopes, the Scanning Electron Microscope, Transmission Electron Microscope, thin-sectioning equipment and other rock preparation equipment; use standard software and to process geologic data on computers
Program Learning Outcome 5:
Participate critically and effectively in communication within the discipline of geology, between geology and other disciplines, and between geology and the general public.
- 5.1: Know how and where to find geologic information; Understand the purposes, strengths and limitations of various sources of geologic information and select the information that is most appropriate for their needs; Read scientific literature critically, extracting and understanding the information that is most relevant for the student's purpose.
- 5.2: Formulate written and oral arguments that clearly and accurately express geological concepts and reasoning, effectively using maps, tables, graphs and diagrams, where appropriate.
- 5.3: Explain the relationships between Earth science and societal issues, including human impact on Earth systems and environments and vice versa.
- 5.4: Acknowledge their own perspectives and biases and interact respectfully and collaboratively with others with diverse perspectives, opinions and backgrounds.
- 5.5: Reflect on new approaches to thinking, problem solving and expression that they have developed within their major and/or have used in their senior project.