Effective Use of Digital Outcrop Models in the Teaching of Field Methods in Geology
Keywords:
geology, spatial cognition, digital outcrop modelAbstract
Spatial visualization and object visualization are frequently used in geological fieldwork. However, geology classrooms usually use photographs, diagrams and maps as teaching media. Three-dimensional objects are represented by two-dimensional graphics in media, which does not promote the development of spatial visualization. As a result, students fail to match their pre-field mental imagery (i.e. distance, size, inclination of bedding) with the natural outcrop features. This study aimed to improve the spatial abilities of second-year students at the Department of Geology, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University by creating a Digital Outcrop Model (DOM) of a limestone quarry in Saraburi Province. Thirty-two students were asked to estimate the absolute size of four boxes as well as apparent dips in a limestone bed using the DOM along with a static outcrop image from the same location. The results showed that the DOM increased the accuracy of size and angle estimations. These results suggest that DOMs could be useful for geology students to improve their spatial cognition in class before working in the field.
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