Spring Semester 2021
Laboratory Policies & Schedule
Outcrop of Devonian Ridgeley Sandstone, with GEOL 102 students for scale
Due to the ongoing COVID pandemic, labs will be held virtually this semester. Lab projects will be provided on ELMS, and Lab assignments turned in as ELMS "quizzes" (which will occasionally include uploaded images for answers.) A short(-ish) Panopto video will be available in advance of each lab; please make certain you have watched in PRIOR to the session that week.
We will have mandatory synchronous Zoom lab meetings on 2:00-5:00 pm Eastern W; Dr. Holtz will be available to help answer questions about the lab, and if you wish you can go into Breakout Rooms to consult on your thoughts and observations. In the end, however, your answers must be your own.
LAB SUPPLIES
Lab Manual: There is actually no separate lab manual to buy this semester. You will be provided with background readings and videos on ELMS, as well as a packet of questions to answer. The answers for the lab are due online on ELMS; some will be entered as online quiz questions; others will require you to scan and upload charts, maps, etc.
(Optional) Hand Lens: A 10x handlens for observing specimens is very useful, although you can go with higher magnification if you wish. There is a very reasonably-priced set of handlenses you can get on Amazon.com at
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07KLPJ1PG/ref=dp_prsubs_2, but you can find them at other sources, too. (Since the lab will be virtual this semester, you won't need this to do the lab assignments! But every geologist should have their own handlens, and normally you would get them about the semester you take Historical Geology.)
(Recommended) Drawing Tools: A colored pencil set and a ruler/straight edge will be helpful in some of the labs.
Recommended: Access to a scanner to make uploadable versions of your maps and charts. Many modern home printers have a built-in scanner function, so some of you may have a scanner you weren't aware of!
LAB POLICIES
The point of the lab is to hone your skills as an observer and to teach you the methods of the field. It is vital that you actually examine the specimens yourselves so that you can discern the various features and attributes of the rocks and fossils.
Please watch the introductory video and read the introductory material on ELMS by the time we meet in lab.
Labs are due the next lab meeting (1 week later). If they are turned in by the next
class time (Friday) there will be a 10% grade reduction; on the following Monday a total
of 30% grade reduction; and a full week late will garner a 50% grade penalty. Labs won't
be accepted for a grade later than 1 week overdue (barring legitimate extenuating
circumstances.)
You are encouraged to collaborate and interact with each other and with Dr. Holtz
while working on the labs. However, all work you turn in must be your own.
If you are having problems, don't be shy; ask for help!
LAB SCHEDULE
Jan 27: Introduction; Overview of Policies; Prior Knowledge Survey
