This fall (1968) several hundred thousand high school students across the nation are studying their environment through a series of laboratory and field investigations. These investigations are designed to permit the students to discover principles of science for themselves and understand earth processes. Stream tables, rock and soil samples, fossil models, field trips, and stereoscopes are now commonplace in thousands of high schools.

The earth and space orientation of this new science course will influence the perspective of millions of youngsters during the next few years. Geoscientists and their efforts will be viewed within the framework of science and the geodisciplines will benefit from an understanding and appreciation in the younger generation that they have never before experienced.

Geology in particular stands to benefit from the new surge of interest that these youngsters will carry with them. A widespread realization of the essential and basic contribution of geology to the progress of mankind is but a part of the dividend. New areas of research will be opened and advanced as greater numbers of young scientists, teachers, and technicians apply their intellect to the study of our planet.

Geologists in our universities and industries should be aware of this new facet of secondary school science education and be prepared to reap the benefits for the geologic profession.

End_of_Article - Last_Page 1836------------