180-11 Exploring Geosciences Solutions (EGeoS): Empowering Appalachian High School Students as Geoscientists

Session: Geoscience Outreach Efforts to Broaden Participation (Posters)

Presenting Author:

Authors:

Abstract:

Appalachia forms a geographic cluster of socio-economic “deep disadvantage,” and is home to numerous rural communities with historically mono-industrial economies. With limited career options in their hometown, many young people often leave Appalachia to pursue employment opportunities, contributing to regional depopulation. However, novel career paths are emerging in Appalachia within energy and climate related sectors that require skills in geoscience. In order to orient Appalachian high school students toward these emerging career opportunities, we are developing a suite of Exploring Geosciences Solutions (EGeoS) learning modules that are focused on STEM-based solutions to modern energy and climate challenges. EGeoS modules use hands-on, guided inquiry and experimental learning in a context that appeals to students’ sense of place by relating STEM concepts to solutions that are germane to their own communities. Each module activity targets various earth system spheres: “Can we control earth’s temperature?” (atmosphere); “Is there white gold in Appalachia?” (lithosphere); “Can trees solve climate change?” (biosphere); “Are rare earth elements in coal waste?” (anthrosphere) and “Is there geothermal energy in Appalachia?” (lithosphere). All EGeoS modules follow the 5E learning cycle model, can be used independently or in series, and are grounded in modern advances in geoscience education and educational psychology. The EGeoS modules also highlight on-going climate- and energy-related research at West Virginia University (WVU), describe potential geoscience career paths, and profile geoscience professionals working in Appalachia. Module content is aligned with West Virginia’s grade 9-12 College- and Career-Readiness Standards for Science across all foundational STEM courses including earth and space science, biology, chemistry, physics, and physical science. We collaborate with more than 30 high school “Educator Influencers” in 20 West Virginia counties to engage high school students in our EGeoS learning modules. EGeoS pedagogy is being extended to an asynchronous online 3-credit introductory geoscience course focused on climate solutions offered through the WVU High School ACCESS program, which is open to qualifying high school students nationwide and provides both high school and college credit at a low tuition rate. This framework could be adapted to suit students in other geographic regions. The ultimate goal of the project is to empower students from all backgrounds to succeed in collegiate STEM training and join the STEM workforce addressing climate and energy goals in the Appalachian region.

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

© Copyright 2025 The Geological Society of America (GSA), all rights reserved.