From Field to Future: How Out-of-Classroom Experiences Shape Geoscience Trajectories

The availability of geological science courses in secondary and tertiary education is inconsistent across the world. This is leading to decreasing enrollment in the geosciences in universities, the closure of geology departments in universities facing budgetary crises, and subsequent shortages in qualified workers for some geoscience industries. To counter this decline, schools and universities without a formal degree program in geosciences can develop and offer out-of-classroom learning experiences that showcase the field of geosciences and the range of potential careers. We developed and studied an extracurricular program that provided geoscience research experiences, field excursions, technical training, and career seminars to a group of 22 early undergraduate students at a university that lacks departments of geological, marine, or atmospheric sciences. The program ran for multiple years, with students having the option to participate in the activities that best fit their schedule and interests. We interviewed individual students at multiple times during the program using questions that examined how the program was shaping the students' education and career goals. Transcribed interviews were coded to examine program influence on learning and geoscience career motivation. A key finding was that meaningful relationships—both peer-to-peer and with faculty mentors—boosted students' confidence in pursuing geoscience careers. This research identifies evidence-based strategies for crafting immersive experiences that deepen student connection to geosciences beyond traditional classroom boundaries.