During the past decade the majority of employment opportunities for geology graduates has shifted from the extractive component of petroleum and mining industries to companies and government agencies specializing in environmental concerns. This represents a fundamental, long term trend that will continue through the remainder of this century. Geologists employed in environmental fields need a broad background in the geological sciences with emphases in hydrogeology, surficial geology, natural resources, geochemistry, and geophysics, and they should be familiar with computer applications that focus on environmental analysis. In keeping with our broad curriculum that allows us to focus on training undergraduates in the environmental aspects of geology, we are developing a computer laboratory consisting of advanced but user friendly personal computers and software for the purpose of enhancing courses in hydrogeology, surficial geology, geology of natural resources, and geophysics. The facility is allowing us to develop innovative laboratory exercises that use image processing, geographic information systems, computer-aided drafting, modeling techniques, and a variety of digital data sets, including satellite images and a unique CUSMAP data set for the region where SIUC is located. Exercises are being designed to enhance scientific understanding of geologic processes and relationships between different elements of the earth system, as well as to emphasize realistic problem-solving applications such as landfill siting, ground water contamination, assessment of geological hazards, and assessment of problems associated with resource exploitation. Because of the visual and interactive nature of these exercises, they enhance the communication of basic and advanced concepts, stimulate critical thinking, and generate enthusiasm for independent study. These attributes and the computer skills acquired are making our undergraduates more competent and competitive in the growin g environmental work force as well as better prepared for graduate study.
