Sample of my Courses:
GEOL 0104 Earthquakes and Volcanoes (Spring)
Earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, despite being labeled as “natural disasters,” are normal, natural geologic processes that have been occurring for billions of years on this planet. Unfortunately, these processes claim tens of thousands of lives and billions of dollars in property damage annually (on average). This course will focus on the fundamental causes of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions and the wide range of secondary effects (e.g., landslides, tsunami, etc.) that accompany these natural disasters. (Students who have completed GEOL 0170 are not permitted to register for GEOL 0104) 3 hrs. lect., 1 hr. disc. SCI
GEOL 1002 Mars: Geology, Evolution, and Exploration (W 2012)
Mars is an Earth-like planet that holds a fascination for scientists, space explorers, science fiction writers, movie makers, and anyone with a curiosity about the sky. In this course, we will explore what we know about the geology and evolution of Mars from spacecraft missions. Volcanism, tectonics, existence of water, and possible presence of life are some topics that will be covered. We will study the results from the probes currently in orbit and on the surface of Mars. We will also investigate plans for sending humans to Mars and building a base on the red planet. lect./disc.
GEOL 0201 Bedrock Geology of Vermont (CW ) (Fall)
This course explores the fascinating geology of Vermont. Students learn the geology through six field problems, involving extended trips around western Vermont. Lectures on the meaning of rocks support the fieldwork. The last few indoor labs are devoted to understanding the geologic map of Vermont. Emphasis is on descriptive writing and on use of data to interpret origin of rocks. Culminates in a written report on the geologic and plate tectonic evolution of Vermont. (One geology course) 3 hrs. lect., 3 hrs. lab/field trips SCI (R. Coish)
GEOL 0211 Mineralogy (Spring)
This course covers the nature, identification, composition, and meaning of minerals and mineral assemblages. Introduction to crystallography, hand-specimen identification, optical mineralogy, x-ray analysis, and electron microbeam analysis. Laboratory: study of minerals in hand-specimen and under the polarizing microscope; use of x-ray diffraction and electron microscopy in mineral analysis. (One geology course) 3 hrs. lect., 3 hrs. lab SCI (R. Coish)
GEOL 0300 Introduction to Petrology (Fall)
An introduction to processes involved in the formation of igneous and metamorphic rocks. The first half of the course includes inquiry into the classification, plate tectonic setting, and evolution of volcanic and plutonic igneous rocks. The second half includes study of progressive metamorphism, the pressure-temperature- time history of metamorphic rocks, and the relation between metamorphism and plate tectonics. Labs will include thin section studies of igneous and metamorphic rocks, as well as field trips in Vermont and the Adirondacks. (GEOL 0211) 3 hrs. lect., 3 hrs. lab/field trips SCI (R. Coish)
FYSE 1226 The Planets
The planets of our solar system have fascinated scientists, philosophers, and amateur astronomers for centuries. In this seminar, we will study what is currently known about the nature and origin of the planets. Other topics will include the evolution of scientific and philosophic thought on the planets, the exploration of the planets by spacecraft in the 20th and 21st centuries, and the existence of other planetary systems in the universe. We will also look at how planets are portrayed in fiction and film. 3 hrs lect/disc. Some evening observation time.3 hrs. sem. SCI (R. Coish)