Date of Award
1-21-2020
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Applied Science
First Advisor
René Shroat-Lewis
Abstract
For many students, introductory core earth science courses, like UA Little Rock’s Earth and the Environment course, represent their last formal education in the Earth Sciences. This project looked to determine if using active learning strategies during lectures will increase understanding in introductory geoscience courses. A series of ConcepTests with Peer Instruction, intended to increase student involvement, were used. To assess the impact of using ConcepTests, two sections of the course, fall 2018 and spring 2019, were given pre- and post-tests using Geoscience Concept Inventory questions. Pre- and post-test scores were compared with classes that did not use ConcepTests with Peer Instruction. Analysis revealed a small, but statistically significant, increase in the post-test scores for students in the classes that used ConcepTests. Thus, these teaching methods incorporated into traditional lecture-style courses helped students make connections between Earth sciences and their everyday lives.
Recommended Citation
Spinler, Kalyca N., "Improving Student Outcomes in Introductory Earth Science Courses Using Active Learning Strategies" (2020). Theses and Dissertations. 918.
https://research.ualr.edu/etd/918
