Chemistry Education for the Geosciences: Perceptions of Importance and Relevant Knowledge

Abstract

The role of chemistry in preparing geologists is not well defined or quantified. Chemistry content and coursework can present challenges and misconceptions that act as barriers for many students (Anderson and Libarkin, 2016; Barbera, 2013). The American Geosciences Institute (AGI) Geoscience Handbook (Carpenter and Keane, 2016) identifies key chemistry concepts and skills for the geosciences. With the diversity of career paths in the geosciences, universal chemistry training guidelines for all is impractical. Our goal is to elucidate geologists’ perceptions of the foundational chemistry knowledge students need for a geoscience degree. We use the term “geosciences” throughout, reflecting the range of degree programs that would align with content outlined in the AGI handbook. Results from this pilot survey can inform curricular choices, course content, and program requirements for geology students.