Geochemical Analysis across the Geology Curriculum and in Related Courses in Chemistry and Environmental Studies

地质学（42）虽然以实地为基础的定性观测仍然是地质学的基础，但要更全面地了解地球系统及其过程以及有关的环境问题，就需要采用多学科的方法，包括收集、解释和应用定量地球化学数据。地质与环境研究专业的学生能够使用具有元素映射和斑点分析功能的自动化波长色散x射线荧光光谱仪，以及相关的样品制备设备，对固体岩石、矿物、沉积物和土壤样品进行主要元素和微量元素分析，并探索其组成关系。根据阿尔比恩学院、迪金森学院、弗曼大学和中田纳西州立大学的范例模型，以及文献，我们将使用这些分析技术的探究式练习纳入物理地质学、矿物学、岩石学、环境地质学、地球化学和环境化学分析的课程中。通过这样做，我们(1)增加了学生在现代科学研究过程中的参与，通过独立/指导研究和环境研究高级研讨会逐步为独立研究和师生合作研究做准备；(2)增强学生对化学成分、矿物学、岩石类型、构造环境和全球生物地球化学循环之间基本关系的理解。我们项目的一个重要组成部分是由经验丰富的外部评估人员组成的团队进行实地考察，在形成性和总结性评估方面提供信息交流和协助。

Geology (42)While qualitative field-based observation remains fundamental to the science of Geology, a more complete understanding of the earth system and its processes, as well as related environmental problems, requires a multi-disciplinary approach including the collection, interpretation, and application of quantitative geochemical data. Students in Geology and Environmental Studies are able to undertake major and trace element analyses of, and explore compositional relationships in, solid rock, mineral, sediment and soil samples by using an automated Wavelength Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometer with element mapping and spot analysis capabilities, along with associated sample preparation equipment. Adapting exemplary models from Albion College, Dickinson College, Furman University, and Middle Tennessee State University, and from the literature, we are incorporating inquiry-based exercises using these analytical techniques into courses in Physical Geology, Mineralogy, Petrology, Environmental Geology, Geochemistry, and Chemical Analysis of the Environment. In so doing, we are (1) increasing the involvement of our students in the process of modern scientific investigation, with progressive preparation for independent and student-faculty cooperative research through Independent/Directed Study and the Environmental Studies Senior Seminar; and (2) enhancing student understanding of fundamental relationships between chemical composition, mineralogy, rock-type, tectonic setting, and global biogeochemical cycling. An important component of our project is site visits by a team of experienced external evaluators, providing information exchange and assistance in formative and summative evaluation.