Geology 110 - Geologic Investigations in Springfield (4 semester hours) Dinklage
In this section of Geology 110 you will learn how geologists investigate the earth, with a focus on earth science topics relevant to us here in Springfield. Topics covered include the vast scale of geologic time, Springfield area rocks, plate tectonics, Ohio glaciation, causes of glaciations and global climate change, global warming and the greenhouse effect, streams and floods, groundwater, and environmental policy. Labs will be tightly woven with the lecture material and will involve application of geological techniques of investigation to answer questions centered around the above topics. Examples of lab activities include determination of the age of local rocks through field investigation of fossils, analysis of maps and the Springfield landscape to study the extent of glaciation, and field investigations of the Mad River and Buck Creek. Math placement of 22 or above recommended. Departmental lab manual costs $5. Lab attendance is mandatory.
Geology 110 - Introductory Geology (4 semester hours) Ka. Bladh
This section of G110 focuses on the geology of volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. A geologic understanding of these hazards, by means of class study of such topics as the products of deadly eruptions and how earth materials respond to earthquake shaking, allow educated citizens to make informed decisions in order to lesson damage and loss of life caused by these hazards. Students must pay a $10 fee the first week of class. This covers the textbook and lab manual (no other book is required). The course has two one-hour lectures and a one two-hour lab per week. Attendance at both hours of lab is required. Math placement of 22 or above recommended.
Geology 110 - Introductory Geology (4 semester hours) Staff
Some fundamental concepts and topics that might be expected in these sections include: (1) the structure and physical constitution of the earth, (2) the internal and external dynamic processes operating to modify the earth's surface and near-surface regions, (3) the nature and origin of the continents and ocean basins, (4) some of the methodology, experimentation, and observations used by geologists in attempting to understand the physical and biological evolution of our earth in time. Some attention will focus on the role of the professional geologist and the knowledgeable layperson, as they consider together some current and potential problems arising from continued utilization and modification of our physical environment. Students can expect considerable flexibility in the format of the course. Lecture, discussion and laboratory approaches will be used, supplemented by videos, other visual aids and (perhaps) a field trip. Some background in mathematics is suggested (Math Placement of 22 strongly recommended), as students will encounter lab exercises that incorporate basic math skills, including Algebra. Computers are occasionally used in lab, but no prior experience is expected. Departmental lab manual costs $5. This course has both lecture and separate lab periods that each student must attend.
Geology 150 Physical Geology (5 semester hours) Dinklage
Geology 150 is a comprehensive introduction to the science of geology. It is suggested for those students who are interested in the possibility of a geology major or minor, other science majors, or any student who desires a more comprehensive treatment of geology. Concepts and topics covered in Geol. 150 include: (1) the structure and physical constitution of the earth, (2) the internal and external dynamic processes operating to modify the earth's surface and near-surface regions, (3) recent research and speculation bearing on the nature and origin of the continents and ocean basins, and (4) methodology, experimentation, and observations used by geologists in attempting to understand the physical and biological evolution of Earth in time. Videos, 35 mm slides and field trips augment the course. The lab includes an introduction to the use of topographic maps, aerial photographs, and geologic maps. Departmental lab manual costs $8. Math placement 22 or above recommended. Students must have a Mineral/Rock Test Kit, available at the bookstore.
Geology 240 - Process Geomorphology (5 semester hours) Ritter
Landforms are a function of geology (lithology and structure), climate and tectonics, as well as the resultant earth processes that operate on them. In process geomorphology we will study earth surface processes and their impact on landforms. Weathering, mass wasting, stream erosion and deposition, groundwater, and glacial processes among others will be studied. Laboratory exercises in map and photo interpretation are designed to introduce students to various techniques used in geomorphology and familiarize students with typical landforms associated with the above processes. Field experiences stress field techniques and data collection associated with various processes and forms as well as interpreting the evolution of landscapes. Students should expect a $5 charge for lab manual. Prerequisites: Geol 150 and Geol 210 or Permission of the Instructor.
Geology 290 - Hazard Mitigation: Volcanoes and Earthquakes (4 semester hours) Ka. Bladh
Open to Upperclassmen (and Freshmen by permission of instructor) of all majors (including geology). No prerequisites. Writing-intensive. Fulfills general education natural world (N) non-lab requirement. Upper-class competency in critical reading, writing and discussion are assumed. Environmental, multidisciplinary approach to volcanic and earthquake hazards. Emphasis will be placed on critical analysis of readings and videos, discussion, journal entries, and collaborative (cross-disciplinary) student analysis of case studies. Focus will be on effective communication of mitigation information and approaches across disciplinary lines (majors). Some use of the worldwide web. Customized textbook (apx. $20) plus Volcano Cowboys ($27).
Geology 310 Paleontology (5 semester hours) Morris
Paleontology is the discipline within geology, which deals with the remains and traces of ancient life preserved in the rocks of the earth's crust. This course will focus on the important groups of fossils, especially invertebrates, including microfossils, which have populated the earth through time. Emphasis will be placed on the identification and classification of fossils, as well as their morphology, mode of life, habitat, and paleoecology.
Lectures, laboratory assignments, and assigned papers each week (in addition to text reading) will address the above topics. Geology 310 is writing intensive, thus several in-class writing assignments and two assigned papers will be completed and evaluated both on content and writing. Each student will work on one or two projects/papers, which involve research and analysis of an assemblage of fossils. One or two field trips will augment the course. Several combined lecture/lab exams, plus evaluation of lab assignments, written assignments, and the project/paper will determine the final grade. Prerequisites: Geol 150 and Geol 210 (Earth History) or permission of the instructor..
Geology 470 - Field Seminar - Kentucky (2 semester hours) Ritter/Morris
This course provides practical experience examining a wide variety of lithologies, landforms and geologic relations, such as unconformities, erosional surfaces, faults and folds in natural settings. Problem-solving exercises emphasize basic principles of geologic science. Students keep a daily field notebook during the trip and present a final report. Students pay for their own food. Transportation, camping fees and tents are provided. Prerequisites: Geology 150 or equivalent and permission of the Geology Chairperson. Enrollment priority given to Geology majors, for whom the course exercises are designed. Open to Geology minors as space permits. Will be graded CR/NC only. Requires a 4-5 day absence from campus.