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r Viewing the world in 3-D:using Google EarthTM to complement traditional

geological mapping

Viewing the world in 3-D:using Google EarthTM to complement traditional

geological mapping

Simon BrocklehurstSchool of Earth, Atmospheric and Environmental Sciences, University of Manchester

shb@manchester.ac.uk

Simon BrocklehurstSchool of Earth, Atmospheric and Environmental Sciences, University of Manchester

shb@manchester.ac.uk

The problem

• Geology is an inherently 3-D subject• Many students struggle to grasp 3-D structural

geometries when these are taught using 2-D maps and cross-sections

• Can virtual-globe technology (i.e., Google EarthTM) be used to help students grasp 3-D geometries more readily?

Twin aims:• Use Google EarthTM to improve students’ grasp of

geologic structures in 3-D• Find effective means to communicate how to do this

Semester One Tutorial exercise

• Import field maps and cross sections drawn during the Second Year Barreme field trip (September, 2010) into Google EarthTM and use the 3-D, virtual globe perspective to test understanding of the structures within the area mapped

• Delivered through Blackboard, with written directions and 4 Camtasia films:• Introduction to Google EarthTM (23 views)• How to import maps (294 views)• How to import cross sections (39 views)• What to do once maps and cross sections have been

imported (14 views)

• 6 tutors, 42 students

Field Area – Barreme, SE France

Intended outcome

Gauging the success of the exercise

• Did the students manage to do the task?• Did the students benefit from the task?

• Anecdotal evidence (discussions in tutorials) plus online questionnaire

• Questions:1. How useful did you find the notes for guidance?

2. How helpful did you find the instructional videos?

3. How helpful did you find the ability to view your map draped over the topography in Google EarthTM?

4. How helpful did you find the ability to view your cross section in Google EarthTM?

5. How much did it add to your understanding of the geologic structure to be able to view your map and section in 3-D?

6. Do you foresee Google EarthTM being helpful in the future, e.g., before, during or after Independent Mapping?

Question Very helpful Somewhat helpful A little helpful Not at all helpful N/A

1 3 6 2 0 0

2 5 5 1 0 0

3 3 4 2 1 1

4 2 3 0 3 3

5 0 5 4 1 1

6 3 3 5 0 0

Feedback and reflection

• Only 11 of 42 students completed the questionnaire...• Abridged comments:

• Such a cool tool, and very encouraging when you can see that you've done everything right; a thoroughly enjoyable assignment

• The videos were concise and very informative/helpful• Map in 3-D was helpful; cross section wasn’t• It was helpful to understanding the structure

• Students don’t prioritise completing questionnaires• Camtasia is helpful in disseminating instructions• Students don’t necessarily embrace new

technologies; though Google EarthTM clearly has potential to aid understanding

Future development – adding structural data

Future development – bigger picture

• Add Google EarthTM exercises to Second Year, second semester tutorials• e.g., remote sensing of potential Independent Mapping areas

• Encourage use of Google EarthTM in Independent Mapping projects

• Explore relevant web resources• Discuss effectiveness of current and future tools with

fellow tutees and field trip staff• Bigger question: use of GIS and associated new

technologies in geological fieldwork