Articles | Volume 4, issue 1
https://doi.org/10.5194/gc-4-95-2021
https://doi.org/10.5194/gc-4-95-2021
Research article
 | 
16 Mar 2021
Research article |  | 16 Mar 2021

A flexible, open, and interactive digital platform to support online and blended experiential learning environments: Thinglink and thin sections

Adam J. Jeffery, Steven L. Rogers, Kelly L. A. Jeffery, and Luke Hobson

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Geosci. Commun. Discuss., https://doi.org/10.5194/gc-2021-32,https://doi.org/10.5194/gc-2021-32, 2021
Manuscript not accepted for further review
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Cited articles

Anand, M., Pearson, V., Kelley, S., Tindle, A., Whalley, P., and Koeberl, K.: Virtual microscope for extra-terrestrial samples, 43rd Lunar and Planetary Science Conference, European Planetary Science Congress, 2012, The Woodlands, Texas, USA, 10, 2012. 
Anderson, L. W., Krathwohl, D. R., Airasian, P. W., Cruikshank, K. A., Mayer, R. E., Pintrich, P. R., Raths, J., and Wittrock, M. C.: A Taxonomy for Learning, Teaching, and Assessing: A revision of Bloom's Taxonomy of Educational Objectives, Pearson, Allyn and Bacon, New York, 2001. 
Appasamy, P.: Fostering student engagement with digital microscopic images using Thinglink, an image annotation program, Journal of College Science Teaching, 47, 16–21, https://doi.org/10.2505/4/jcst18_047_05_16, 2018. 
Argles, T., Minocha, S., and Burden, D.: Virtual field teaching has evolved: benefits of a 3D gaming environment, GeologyToday, 31, 222–226, https://doi.org/10.1111/gto.12116, 2015. 
Ariskin, A. A. and Nielsen, R. L.: Application of computer simulation of magmatic processes to the teaching of petrology, J. Geol. Educ., 41, 438–441, https://doi.org/10.5408/0022-1368-41.5.438, 1993. 
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We investigate the potential use of Thinglink, an interactive imagery-based web platform, for the study of rocks, minerals, and fossils under the microscope. We disseminated a prototype which allowed users to view rock samples through a "virtual" microscope and gathered feedback from staff and students. Results were overwhelmingly positive and imply real interest in this style of resource. Such resources could help to enhance accessibility and inclusivity and could complement existing teaching.
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