Trends in American Geological Education During the Critical Years, 1954-1969.

Overview & Synopsis

Reported are trends in geological education over a time span selected to correspond to that in which the federal government dramatically increased spending in science education and then subsequently withdrew major support. Aspects of geological education covered include: 1) history of the selected years in geological education, 2) geological education programs (degree requirements, course-credit value, faculty numbers, student enrollment), 3) changes in geological education since Sputnik, 4) geological philosophies. Changes were identified by utilizing data collected by the American Geological Institute and published in various forms for the selected years. Opinions of leading geologists were obtained by printed questionnaires, telephone interviews, and by personal interview. Persons responding represented 16 percent of United States institutions granting a bachelor's degree in geology and 39 percent of the institutions granting a doctor's degree in geology in 1969. Trends show a decrease in various major topics in the undergraduate curriculum; however, chemistry, physics and mathematics remained high. Faculty and staff members continue to increase and student enrollment continued to increase. Government cut-backs started in 1968 were continued in 1969 and research in colleges with small departments tended to diminish. (EB)