Interactive Computer Applications for the Improvement of Introductory-Geology Laboratory Exercises

At SUNY-Geneseo, General Geology is a one-semester lab-science course for nonscience majors. Using Asymetrix ToolBook® we created 15 computer-assisted lab exercises that combine text, graphics, and simple animation. These interactive computer applications do not replace the traditional lab activities. Students still make observations, record results, draw conclusions, and answer questions at lab tables. Then they move to one of twelve 486-33 computers in the lab room to check their work. If their answers were correct, they know it immediately and can use that knowledge to answer other questions. Explanations or tutorials indicate why certain answers are incorrect. Students use these self-paced applications to test their level of understanding, identify their misconceptions, and seek explanatory information. Computers promote consistent teaching and evaluation: teaching staff use the applications to prepare for labs, students with different instructors get the same information, and student exercises are ev...