How has teaching geochemistry changed over two decades?

Hands-on computational exercises – from teletypesand card decks to Excel

Less “core” exposure and more of an “elective.”

More topics (especially TE and isotopes)

New analytical methods (e.g., various microbeams)

More geochemistry across the curriculum

The Problem of Low Enrollments!

Q: How to appeal to diverse majors?

Geology, environmental science, (forensic) chemistry

A: Promote appealing applications

For example:

GEOCHEMICAL PROCESSES IN THECHESAPEAKE BAY WATERSHED

GEOL 470 Special Topics in Geology, MW 1-3:15

For more information or special permission contact, Dr. Steven Lev, Dept. of Physics, Astronomy and Geosciences at slev@towson.edu

This is a course on the biogeochemistry of the Chesapeake Bay Region with a special focus on the geochemistry of inorganic contaminants with in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed.  Topics will include…Low temperature geochemical processes at the earth’s surfaceBehavior of trace metals in soil forming systemsFate of inorganic contaminants in the environmentThe role of sediments on the chemistry of the Bay and it’s subordinate watersheds Students with an interest in Geology, Chemistry, Biology, Geography or Environmental Science are encouraged to enroll in this multi-disciplinary course. Suggested pre-requisites include at least one of the following Physical Geology (GEOL 121), General Chemistry (CHEM 110/111) or Contemporary General Biology (BIOL 110) or permission from the instructor.

Nothing beats good teaching!

But you need strategies to get good students, too.