Contact us
Email: assess@uri.edu
This website is printer friendly!

Geosciences

Outcome Statements for Geosciences Majors

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.

knowledge of:

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

ability to:

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

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

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

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

1. Locate, compile, and organize information using a variety of techniques and current technology--30
2. Critically evaluate various sources of information.--31

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

1. Understand the perspectives and scope of related disciplines--36
2. Interact effectively with peers and professionals in related fields--37

1. Develop a personal environmental ethic--38
2. Be conversant in the ethical standards of geology--39

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

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

 

For more information, please visit the Geosciences Outcomes Matrix.