Outcome Statements for Geosciences Undergraduates
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We welcome you to the Department of Geosciences,
of the College of the Environment and Life Sciences! By the time you
graduate, we in the College and department have every expectation that
your education at URI will provide you with the critical knowledge,
skills, and perspectives that will foster your success during the next
phases of your life.
We ask that you dedicate yourself to learning
while you are here at URI. The rewards will be countless. Your URI studies
and your co-curricular experiences will help you to:
-
build a solid base of knowledge in
the major that you choose,
-
communicate effectively with the people
you will encounter in your work and personal life, and
-
develop awareness and perspective
regarding your personal engagement as a member of the global community.
Your professors in the Department of Geosciences
have established the following list of expectations for your learning
here at URI. Please study the list and use it as a road map for your
education. Review it on a regular basis and discuss it with your academic
advisor. You will be amazed at your educational progress each semester
and with your level of achievement at the conclusion of your undergraduate
studies.
We wish you all the best during your years
with us in the College of the Environment and Life Sciences.
KNOWLEDGE
DEPTH AND APPLICATION OF KNOWLEDGE –
You will acquire knowledge and skills necessary to obtain or pursue
a professional position or graduate/professional training in your discipline.
By the time you complete your education you will have the
1. Earth processes--1
2. Geologic time--2
3. Earth history--3
4. The evolution of life--4
5. Plate tectonics--5
6. Global climate--6
7. The effect of natural processes and human activity on the environment--7
8. The earth as a set of interconnected systems--8
1. Construct simple geologic maps--9
2. Identify common rocks and minerals--10
3. Carry out measurements of the physical and chemical properties
of earth materials--11
4. Summarize the geologic evolution of selected areas, such as Rhode
Island--12
5. Use geologic compasses, GPS, GIS systems, and related cartographic
tools--13
6. Where appropriate integrate and apply knowledge and skills to solve
specific geologic problems--14
QUANTITATIVE COMPETENCE –
You will identify and use appropriate quantitative methods to analyze
physical, biological, or social phenomena, as they pertain to geology.
By the time you complete your education you will have the
knowledge of:
1. Basic mathematical and statistical
terms and concepts used in geology--15
2. Research methodologies--16
ability to:
1. Use computational and analytical
tools to evaluate geologic data--17
2. Form inferences, judgments and conclusions based upon your analysis
of geologic data--18
3. Use simple algebraic and differential equations in the solution
of
geologic problems-19
METHODS OF INQUIRY –
You will understand and use methods of inquiry appropriate to your discipline.
By the time you complete your education you will have
knowledge of:
1. Scientific method--20
2. The significance of geology as an “historical” science--21
ability to:
1. Use observation, exploration, experimentation,
and simulation to gain
knowledge--22
2. Formulate and test hypotheses, based upon your analysis of geologic
data--23
3. Recognize the limitations of the methods you use--24
PROBLEM-SOLVING –
You will use acquired knowledge, skills, and ingenuity to solve complex
problems. By the time you complete your education you will have the
knowledge of:
1. A range of problem-solving strategies--25
be ability to:
1. Use existing information to develop
problem-solving strategies--26
2. Choose and implement an appropriate strategy--27
3. Evaluate results and refine strategy accordingly--28
4. Construct analog and digital models of geologic processes--29
COMMUNICATION
INFORMATION MANAGEMENT –
You will gather and interpret information from
diverse sources. By the time you complete your education you will be
able to
1. Locate, compile, and organize information
using a variety of techniques and current technology--30
2. Critically evaluate various sources of information.--31
COMMUNICATION –
You will communicate clearly and effectively using a variety of methods.
By the time you complete your education you will be able to:
1. Speak in an articulate manner and
present your ideas and knowledge effectively--32
2. Write logically and effectively for diverse audiences--33
3. Use discipline-specific modes, such as PowerPoint, for graphic communication--34
4. Be able to listen effectively and respond appropriately--35
MULTIDISCIPLINARY PERSPECTIVE –
You will recognize the value of, and participate in, multidisciplinary
teams. By the time you complete your education you will be able to
1. Understand the perspectives and scope
of related disciplines--36
2. Interact effectively with peers and professionals in related fields--37
PERSONAL GROWTH
ETHICAL PRINCIPLES –
You will understand and apply ethical principles to issues, problems,
and professional practices. By the time you complete your undergraduate
education you will
1. Develop a personal environmental
ethic--38
2. Be conversant in the ethical standards of geology--39
GLOBAL AWARENESS –
You will develop an awareness of global community
and ecology in their physical, biological, and social dimensions. By
the time you complete your education you will
1. Become familiar with Earth systems
and the manner in which they have been modified by human activity over
time--40
2. Recognize and appreciate the diversity of human cultures and their
relationships to local and global ecosystems--41
PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT –
You will develop a sense of responsibility to self, community, and society.
By the time you complete your education you will
1. Recognize the value and benefits
of being a contributing member of your community and society--42
2. Use reflection and self-evaluation to set goals for personal improvement—43
3. Understand and respect differences among diverse populations--44
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