eRock: An Open-Access Repository of Virtual Outcrops for Geoscience Education

Adam J. Cawood

Dept. of Geology & Petroleum Geology, University of Aberdeen, AB24 3UE, UK,

Clare E. Bond

Dept. of Geology & Petroleum Geology, University of Aberdeen, AB24 3UE, UK

Abstract

Visualizing objects and structures in 3D is a task that most people, including geologists, find difficult. Geoscience educators and students often find field-based exercises the most effective medium for understanding complex geological concepts and visualizing relationships in 3D (e.g., Elkins and Elkins, 2007). Unfortunately, field-based training is not available to everyone. Traditional barriers to this field-based training include physical disabilities, lack of financial resources, and geographical restrictions. Recent advances in data acquisition and processing have the potential to circumvent these traditional barriers to access and open up a vast number of field sites to a diverse range of people.

Manuscript received 3 Apr. 2018. Revised manuscript received 31 Oct. 2018. Manuscript accepted 10 Nov. 2018. Posted 6 Dec. 2018.

top