From The College of Wooster Course Catalogue

GEOL 313 (Structural Geology) is an introduction to the processes of deformation and geometry of deformed rocks. The course will examine rock deformation through analysis of structures at both the microscopic and outcrop scales, with emphasis on descriptive geometry, map interpretation, and cross-section construction methods (modified from C.O.W. Catalogue).

By the conclusion of this course, the most important Learning Outcome is for students to enhance their abilities to think and act like geologists. Specifically, students will be able to:

1. identify mesoscopic and microscopic geologic structures (e.g., joints, veins, faults, folds) and describe their origins.

2. understand stress, strain, and rheology and their geologic interactions at all scales.

3. interpret geologic maps, generate cross-sections, and compile the tectonic history of a region.

4. describe plate tectonics, tectonic settings, and specific orogenic events.

5. improve three-dimensional spatial visualization techniques and map reading skills using a variety of mesoscopic geologic structures.

The above GEOL 313 Learning Outcomes are related to broader Department Learning Goals. The Department of Geology has identified six (6) Student Learning Goals; these Goals are directly related to the Department’s Mission Statement. Both of these critical documents are shown below. The Department’s Mission Statement is followed by an abbreviated table that summarizes how teaching and learning in GEOL 313 relate directly to Department Learning Goals and Outcomes.

Department Mission Statement

The Department of Geology at The College of Wooster seeks to produce liberally educated scholars who are scientists, well-versed in scientific methodology and its applications, who possess a thorough knowledge of fundamental geologic concepts, who take a creative approach to problem-solving, and who are able to express themselves with clarity, both orally and in writing.