Earth System Science as an Internet Course

A Case Study

Tamra A. SchiappaDepartment of Geosciences

Idaho Virtual Campus

Boise State University

Acknowledgements• Idaho Virtual Campus Idaho Technology Incentive Grant

• Instructional Performance Technology Institute

• Permian Research Institute, Boise State University

Acknowledgements• Idaho Virtual Campus Idaho Technology Incentive Grant

• Instructional Performance Technology Institute

• Permian Research Institute, Boise State University

Earth System Science

Holistic approach to study of the Earth

Emphasizes dynamic interrelationships betweenatmosphere, hydrosphere, geosphere, biosphere

Contents address general Earth processes

Students develop understanding of interactionbetween the Earth System and subsystems

Conclusions:

Students engaged in this type of science learning:

Actively participate in their education

Flexible time schedule increased class participation

Demonstrated improved writing skills

Conclusions:

Students engaged in this type of science learning:

Actively participate in their education

Flexible time schedule increased class participation

Demonstrated improved writing skills

Advantages Students:

Flexible time schedule

“Faceless environment”

Time to research and think through discussion questions

Advantages Students:

Flexible time schedule

“Faceless environment”

Time to research and think through discussion questions

Advantages Instructors:

Flexible time schedule

Time to research and think through questions

More student - instructor interaction

Advantages Instructors:

Flexible time schedule

Time to research and think through questions

More student - instructor interaction

Disadvantages Instructors, students:

Expensive

Time-intensive

Requires technical, administration support

Disadvantages Instructors, students:

Expensive

Time-intensive

Requires technical, administration support