The Geologic map is the geologists premier tool for understanding the three dimensional geometry of rock distributions and rock fabric; mapping is often an essential first step in reconstructuring earth history. Making and interpreting maps is an effective way to teach undergraduates the scientific method while also teaching geologic principals. Northern Arizona University will introduce modern technologies to geologic mapping: Computer assisted compilation combined with graphical relational databases. A SUN workstation will be used to run software ARC/INFO, and four MSDOS workstations to run GSMAP. These technologies will be used in to Field Methods courses for sophomores, juniors, and seniors, to summer field course, to undergraduate research projects, and to introductory courses for non- majors. A revolution in geologic mapping technologies is in progress; this project will help set a standard for undergraduate education by having undergraduates participate in this revolution. The university will match the award with an equal amount of funds.
