The Personal Journal as a Learning and Evaluation Tool in Geology Field-Trip Courses

Some pedagogical problems in extended geology field-trip courses are caused by a diverse student clientele, a spatial rather than thematic course organization, and an interdisciplinary course content. These problems are mitigated by the use of the “Learning Log,” an instructional tool that provides focus and continuity, and permits fair evaluation of students with dissimilar backgrounds. The Learning Log is a structured personal journal divided into five sections. The “Noting” section functions as a typical notebook, that is, as a place to record notes from lectures, discussions, and readings. In the “Relating” section, students integrate what they are experiencing on the trip with what they have learned in other courses or situations. The “Creating” section is a place for students to express themselves in ways not typically solicited in science courses, for example, poetry, drawing and photography. Students use the “Telling” section to answer examination questions and write other assignments that may be ...