Active volcanoes provide a uniquely exciting environment in which students can learn how to conduct field-based geologic research. A new course, Field Volcanology, is based in the southern Cascades, a region containing three active volcanoes with contrasting eruptive styles. The course extends the traditional geology field camp curriculum by teaching how mapping can be used in conjunction with other skills to address specific research questions. Through a series of integrated projects the participants learn how to prepare detailed geologic maps and cross sections; install equipment in the field; collect, analyze and interpret a variety of original data; use field criteria to evaluate different eruption models; and assess the state of activity and potential hazards of each volcano. By using this environment and teaching approach we seek to produce motivated and well-trained young scientists who will be better prepared for a professional career in whatever subdiscipline they choose to pursue. The proposed five-week Field Volcanology course builds upon two of the major strengths of the Geology Department at Arizona State University: its internationally recognized program in volcanology and its undergraduate and graduate curricula that are centered upon a variety of field courses. It also takes advantage of some equipment purchased through an earlier ILI grant for development of a field geophysics course.
