Engaging Students in Learning Through Diversity (LtD) Using Environmental Case Studies

June, 9, Bruce Herbert, Professor of Geology & Geophysics, Texas A&M University, 1-2pm CT

Solutions to environmental issues are usually based upon STEM knowledge, economics, and cultural values and beliefs. Discussions of these issues can be incorporated into any STEM class because of their cross-disciplinary nature. For instance, student discussion of the recent BP oil spill off the coast of Louisiana could engage them in discussions of the chemistry of oil, the physics of winds and waves, the ecology of the Louisiana salt marshes or the geology of petroleum. Learning benefits can be extended through learning through diversity when students are asked to justify proposed solutions to these problems using both their knowledge and values.