iEarth Education Research Publication Series

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Project: "Creating soundtracks for geoScience: Exploring the use of nonvisual tools for accessible learning"

Authors: Karen Mair, Elliot Termote and Matteo Demurtas.

Funding from iEarth: 50 000 NOK

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Abstract

This project explores the use of sound (non-speech audio) as a tool for accessible and/or augmented learning. They created soundtracks of specific geological processes related to frictional sliding on geological faults. These soundtracks strive to capture elements of the physical processes at play, presented in an immersive and engaging way to provide an alternative (or complementary) learning experience. The soundtracks have been released as a Friction EP on the Soundcloud and Bandcamp platforms along with 'sleeve notes' briefly describing the four geological processes considered (Stable sliding, Stick-Slip, Healing and Melting).

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Now they target the international rock deformation community, and encourage the use of these soundtracks in classic learning environments, providing guidelines for use as a geoLearning resource. Feedback on the helpfulness of these non-visual tools is anticipated from these communities in the coming year as courses are taught at various universities. On reflection of these critiques, the role sound based tools may play in future geoScience learning will be evaluated.

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You can listen to the soundtracks on Soundcloud and Bandcamp.
We encourage feedback from both students and educators on their usage and experience of the soundtracks via this anonymous online questionnaire.

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Read the iEarth Education Research Publication on "Soundtracks for GeoScience" here