Research by Edward Crisp, WVU Parkersburg professor of geology, addresses "Using Dinosaur Tracks and Models to Calculate Dinosaur Speeds and Weights as a Method of Introduction of Physical Principles and the Use of Mathematical Calculations in Undergraduate Introductory Earth Science Laboratories."

Crisp said undergraduate introductory earth science courses for non-science majors often lack data quantification and mathematical manipulation exercises.  He noted that it may be of more value to the student to present physical principles of nature in a format where data is quantified through mathematical calculations.

"Of course, this often 'turns students off' when they see a mathematical formula," he added.  "However, if dinosaurs are brought in the mix, it often 'turns students on.'"

Crisp said laboratory exercises of this nature, such as determining the speed of a theropod dinosaur, enhance students' learning and make them better critical thinkers.

Research by Susan Sowards, WVU Parkersburg instructor of geology, involves "Upper Pennsylvanian Rocks and Permian Dunkard Group Rocks of Western West Virginia Facilitate Field Based and Classroom Teaching of Introductory Earth Science and Geology Classes."

Her presentation addresses the wide array of geoscience concepts related to regional rock formations that can be addressed in introductory earth science and geology classes. 

"Fossil assemblages and their relationship to ancient depositional environments reinforce to students that index fossils are used to determine age," she noted.

Approximately 1,100 geoscientists are expected to attend the three-day meeting, being held (March 25-27) in Tysons Corner, Va.