Flexibility and efficiency in university soil science education: The Oz Soils 3.0 CD-ROM

Abstract

Based on a 1997 CUTSD grant, we have developed 18 teaching modules for a CD-ROM based interactive multimedia program, called Oz Soils, which is integrated into the teaching curriculum of internal and external undergraduate units at The University of New England to assist students in understanding the fundamental concepts and processes of soil science. Oz Soils incorporates a flexible self-directed learning structure to help achieve this understanding. Other unit resources include a study guide, a practical workbook, and on-line quiz modules conducted through WebCT. Oz Soils makes use of interactive animations, still graphics, and text, and includes interactive selfassessment questions. The program can be readily integrated into a range of study areas which require a basic understanding of soil science including agriculture, forestry, ecosystems management, natural resources, ecology, engineering, mine site rehabilitation, geology, geography and biology. Oz Soils has been extremely well received by students and has been adopted by many Australian university departments which require teaching aspects of soil science. A brief rationale for developing the Oz Soils resource is presented, together with some outcomes of student questionnaires and research on a learning strategies study.