REVEALUVU

Dr. Daren Nelson

Utah Valley University - Earth Science Department

Orem, Utah

Bio: R.E.V.E.A.L. the Geosciences - (Research Experiences and Virtual Exploration for Accelerated Learning in the Geosciences). R.E.V.E.A.L. is a mentored undergraduate research project that produces virtual field experiences for introductory students in the geosciences. It is proposed that mentored student engagement of the acquisition and application of the field guides will 1) provide on the job-training for undergraduate students within the geosciences, 2) aid it the retention and recruitment of geoscience students by increasing interest in the field and improving critical and spatial thinking skills via real-world applications and localities, 3) provide accessibility to field excursions for students who cannot attend field excursions due to physical disabilities, time constraints, and/or financial or safety concerns, and 4) collect a public database of field guides for specifically teaching the geological diversity of the Rocky Mountain West.