At Stony Brook University on Long Island we encourage earth science teachers and earth science education students to undertake independent research projects which usually emphasize field studies. Long Island was formed by the glaciers and many glacial features are preserved in the moraines and outwash plains that cover Long Island. For example, the Stony Brook University campus is on both the Harbor Hill Moraine and the Terryville Outwash Plain which formed during the last glacial maximum. As a result there is an abundance of preserved glacial features on the campus. Our philosophy is that geology is all around us and can be observed as soon as you step out the door. You do not have to travel long distances to study geology. Earth science education students are encouraged to do observational studies on the Stony Brook Campus or at a local park or preserve. We, however, encourage earth science teachers to do observational studies on or near their school campus with the motto “Geology does not exist until you describe it.”

The types of research include describing: glacial features, the surface hydrology of the area, the environmental effects of the different types of landscaping on or near the campus, the stratigraphy near the school based on well logs and exposed sections, or the rock types represented in boulders, cobbles or pebbles. Besides a written research report a science walk or science drive is also created. The science walks or drives are designed to be self guiding, but work best as field guides for teacher-led field trips.

The benefits of this type of research for the earth science teacher is that it provides hands-on experience that they can use to help better explain some of the earth science concepts in class with local examples. It is more interesting for students when they find that the processes or concepts that they are learning can be seen near their school or homes. It provides experience that the teacher can use to better develop research projects for the more interested students. And, the teacher is more at ease taking students on field trips. If the projects are on or near the school grounds, field trips may be done as part of regular class time. Also, hiring a bus is not required. Examples of some of the research reports and science walks are on the web at http://www.geo.sunysb.edu/esp