3D models for teaching and learning geosciences

Although 3D geological models have been used in teaching as early as 1841, recent developments in 3D geological modelling methods and visualisation at the British Geological Survey (BGS) are providing unique resources for teaching and learning geoscience in the 21st century. Today’s geoscience students utilise a variety of cognitive processes and spatial skills during their learning experience. These include the application of schema’s, image construction, detecting patterns, memorising figures, mental manipulation and interpretation, making predictions and deducing the orientation of themselves and the rocks around them. Digital 3D geological models allow students to visualise and interrogate geology; they reinforce spatial skills, facilitate student recognition of pre-learnt geological principles in the field and encourage students to think about geological processes and properties. In turn they assist students when they convert 2D field, map and GIS outputs into three dimensional geological units, a widespread difficulty for many students of geology.