| A fundamental goal of geoscience education is to ensure that all people have a basic understanding of the natural processes that shape the earth (Locke, Libarkin, & Chang, 2012). Field studies courses are offered at many colleges and universities in the United States and give students access to hands-on learning and outdoor experiences. In-depth outdoor experiences can influence environmental attitudes (Okada, Okamura, & Zushi, 2013). Other research has indicated that outdoor field experiences enhance student enthusiasm,motivation, and learning (Boyle et al., 2007; Hope, 2009).;This study examined student connections with landscapes, and emotional responses of students to the field course experience. Surveys were completed by students participating in one of four earth science field courses. The data was analyzed to determine whether students developed personal connections to the locations of the field course, and whether this experience influenced their environmental attitudes. The researcher found that the environmental attitudes of the students surveyed did not change significantly (p<.05). Many students reported no change in their environmental attitudes, but a number of students did indicate a deepening of appreciation for the natural world. Additionally, the study found that many students did develop personal connections to the location(s) of their field courses. The personal connections developed by students ranged from spiritual connections, intellectual connections, and personal desires to protect the places where they went on the field course. |
