Geoscientists are taking portable computers to the field and are analyzing geographically referenced data and information as a routine part of their investigations. Geographical and institutional diversity in graduate training is highly recommended for geoscientists. The opportunity to learn about different geological terrains coupled with the exposure to different educational methods and philosophies is a very important dimension of graduate education and the postdoctorate experience in the geosciences. Field experience is critical to understanding the uncertainties of geoscience data collection, how field data is analyzed to develop geological information, and how geological information is used with other types of geoscience information to develop models for applications. Perhaps one of the major shortcomings in the preparation of geoscientists for careers in higher education is the lack of adequate preparation for teaching in a classroom and laboratory setting.
Today there is an appropriately renewed focus on improving the quality of undergraduate education.
Geoscientists beginning their academic careers should expect to receive initial assignments to the beginning undergraduate curriculum. Because of the emphasis on research in graduate study, there is often little time allocated to improving teaching skills important in the classroom. This inherent shortcoming of graduate education can be overcome by seeking opportunities to teach and to direct undergraduate laboratories and field problems. Another solution is to take courses in the science of teaching. I became interested in the geosciences relatively early in life.