170-11 Integrating Experiential Learning Together With Quantitative, Analytical & Critical Thinkings Skills In Curricula To Recruit Future Geoscientists At A HBCU

Session: Quantitative and Data Analysis Skills in Geoscience Education: Supporting Student, Course, and Program Outcomes, Part I

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The need for geoscience graduates with robust quantitative and data analysis skills is paramount for both academic and workforce success. Concurrently, increasing the diversity of the geosciences remains a critical goal for the scientific community. The Fort Valley State University (FVSU) GEOPAths program, an initiative at a Historically Black College and University (HBCU), addresses both challenges through an innovative, student-centered curriculum. This abstract details our program's successful integration of experiential learning, specifically through the application of near-surface geophysical techniques.

Students engage in hands-on field and laboratory activities, such as seismic refraction surveys and ground-penetrating radar, to collect and analyze real-world data. This immersive, project-based approach provides a tangible context for applying foundational quantitative skills—from basic algebra and statistics to advanced data processing and interpretation. Students are not just taught theory; they learn to manipulate large datasets, perform statistical analyses, and visualize results, bridging the gap between classroom concepts and practical application.

The program not only strengthens students' quantitative confidence and mastery of these essential skills but also serves as a powerful recruitment tool. By showcasing the dynamic and hands-on nature of geoscience, the program has been instrumental in attracting and retaining a diverse cohort of students, many of whom were previously unaware of the field's career potential. This presentation will highlight the curriculum design, student outcomes, and best practices of the FVSU GEOPAths program, offering a replicable model for other institutions seeking to enhance quantitative education and broaden participation in the geosciences.

Geological Society of America Abstracts with Program. Vol. 57, No. 6, 2025

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