Hiking in 脼ingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park.
Ten members of the 可乐视频 Geology Society traveled to Iceland over spring break 2018. Chaperoned by EESC聽Lecturer Matthew Garb, they studied the unique geology of the island during a six-day adventure.
“The act of exploration and hands-on, experiential learning is especially important when attempting to understand the earth itself; how it functions, how it is formed, how it behaves,” states Lisa Bloodgood, Geology Society member and trip participant.
Students visited 脼ingvellir (Thingvellir) National Park to observe the fissure zone situated on the boundaries of the rifting North American and Eurasian tectonic plates鈥攖he only place in the world where this process is exposed. They observed Iceland’s geothermal activity, both by visiting hot springs and geysers, and spent time at some of the many waterfalls on the island鈥攁 result of the country’s volcanic origins. Students were also able to witness a Short System first hand; the close proximity of the iconic volcanoes to the columnar-jointed black-sand beaches made it an ideal study area for braided streams and other sedimentary processes. “Examining the glaciers was a highlight for many of the students,” says student Chris Forrester. “Having seen the evidence of glacial activity during field trips to New York’s Central Park, it was amazing to see鈥攁nd hear鈥攖he process actually happening.”
“Iceland is a land built and carved by immense natural forces,” says Alison Rowe, Geology Society president. “As a student who studies the earth, I find it both humbling and inspiring to be able to make a trip like this. It adds a perspective that you just can’t get in the classroom.”
“It took a lot of coordination,” she adds. We were really lucky to work with International Field Studies, a U.S.-based nonprofit that works with educators to put together field study programs. We couldn’t have had this experience if it weren’t for them.”
Funding for the trip came from student contributions as well as grants from the Student Activities budget and the Academic Club Association.
