Adapting Laser Diffraction Particle Size Analysis in an Inquiry-Based Undergraduate Geology Curriculum

激光衍射粒度分析仪使我们能够继续在我们以探究为基础的基础上继续发展，该基础来自Baldwin 1970年、Manley和Manley 1997年以及Coish 1998年的课程作业和研究。与其他粒度分析方法(如移液管和比重计法)相比，该仪器具有较高的精确度，并且能够快速分析各种粒度范围内的大量样品。因此，我们改进了：1)我们的环境地球化学、地貌学、海洋地质学、环境地质学和水文学课程的课程，2)环境科学入门课程的实验室部分，3)本科生研究的机会，以及4)附近学院和大学的学生和教职员工的研究机会。我们将激光粒度分析与现有的仪器资源(例如，X射线衍射仪、电感耦合等离子体发射光谱、扫描电子显微镜-能谱仪)和基于现场的资源相结合，以创建一种研究地表和环境地质学的跨学科方法。使用实践操作的学生现在有机会练习批判性思维，调查他们自己的假设，并体验他们可以应用和磨练重要的分析技能。我们为有兴趣将激光粒度分析应用于学生和教师研究的地区性学院的教职员工提供一个短期课程。这门短期课程强调粒度分析在地质学、土壤科学和环境科学中的应用，允许加强教师队伍，并允许地区学院的学生访问他们的研究项目。

The Laser Diffraction Particle Size Analyzer has allowed us to continue to build on our inquiry-based foundation adapted from the coursework and research of Baldwin 1970,1972; Manley and Manley 1997; and Coish, 1998. The instrument was adapted based on its accuracy compared to other methods of particle size analysis (e.g. pipette and hydrometer methods), and also its ability to rapidly analyze numerous samples over a wide range of particle size. As a result we have improved: 1) our curriculum in the environmental geochemistry, geomorphology, marine geology, environmental geology and hydrology courses, 2) the laboratory component of the introductory environmental science course, 3) opportunities for undergraduate research, and 4) research opportunities for students and faculty from nearby colleges and universities. We have combined laser particle size analysis with existing instrumental resources (e.g., XRD, ICP, SEM-EDS) and field-based resources to create an interdisciplinary approach to surficial and environmental geology. Students using hands-on now have the opportunity to practice critical thinking, investigate their own hypotheses, and experience where they can apply and hone important analytical skills. We are offering a short course for faculty from regional colleges interested in applying laser particle size analysis to student and faculty research. This short course emphasizes applications of particle size analysis to geology, soil science and environmental science allowing for faculty enhancement and access by students from regional colleges for use in their research projects..