Observational
Learning – routes
to Involve
Communities in
Citizen Science
Allen Gontz
School for the Environment
Course Description
• EEOS 187S – SFE Freshmen Science Gateway
• Techniques to be applied toward
• EEOS 302 – Geomorphology
• EEOS 327 – Coastal Geology
• EEOS 312 – Glacial Geology & Quaternary
Climates
• Description of EEOS 187S
• CSM freshman seminar, based on observational
learning and introduction to Scientific Method
Project Team
• UMass-Boston SFE
• Allen Gontz – Primary Instructor & Lead
• National Park Service
• Marc Albert – NPS Conservation Officer
• Mass Department of Conservation &
Recreation
• Ellen Berkland – DCR Chief Archaeologist
Project Goals
• Students in EEOS 187S
• Develop “environmental issues” videos
• Create social media composite videos to
showcase problems, issues, solutions
• Include in interpretation offered at DCR & NPS
sites in the local area
Possible Learning
Outcomes
• Presentation skills
• Local knowledge of environmental issues
• Local knowledge of environmental impacts
• Access to technology and social media WRT
education and outreach
What I want from CESI:
• Identification & Access to campus and
community resources
• A place to “test drive” ideas
• Assistance with implementation