13 Sharing Geology: Building the Geocommunity Through Creative Engagement
Explore how geology connects with communities beyond research. Share strategies for public engagement, volunteerism, education, and advocacy. We welcome diverse approaches, including research, teaching, service, creativity, and communication that bridge science and society.
Sunday, 22 March 2026
1:30 PM - 5:30 PM
CCC, Room 26
Stories, Stones, and Science: Creative Communication in Geology Education
Paper number: 13-3
Program: Technical Sessions
Time: 2:15 PM – 2:35 PM
Authors
Abstract
Geology education is inherently interdisciplinary, yet opportunities for meaningful connection across technical, cultural, and social boundaries remain uneven. Informal learning environments such as the Beneski Museum of Natural History offer valuable opportunities to address this challenge. Drawing on more than 170 years of natural history museum practice at Amherst College— with the Beneski representing the most recent 25 years—this work leverages well-curated exhibits and faculty expertise across Earth Science and Biology.
This presentation examines how creative engagement strategies—including storytelling, visual design, participatory activities, and collaborative learning—can enhance geoscience education by increasing accessibility, inclusivity, and student engagement. Using case studies from the Beneski Museum, we explore the intersection of formal and informal learning environments and demonstrate how creative approaches support deeper understanding of geologic concepts.
By reframing geologic data and processes as shared narratives rather than exclusively technical content, these approaches promote curiosity, critical thinking, and discussion while accommodating diverse learning styles. The presentation highlights practical, transferable strategies for integrating creativity into geology instruction, including interactive presentations, visual storytelling, and co-creation with learners. Particular emphasis is placed on teaching phenomena that extend beyond human scales, such as deep time and large-scale Earth systems.
We conclude that fostering a resilient and engaged geoscience community requires more than content delivery; it requires intentional design of learning experiences that promote connection, accessibility, and shared ownership of knowledge
Geological Society of America Abstracts with Programs. Vol. 58, No. 2
doi: 10.1130/abs/2026NE-411122
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