Joe Elkins

PhD, University of Georgia, 2002.
Area of Study: Geology

MEd, University of West Georgia, 1996.
Area of Study: Secondary Education (Science)

BS, University of West Georgia, 1995.
Area of Study: Geology

Associate Professor, University of Northern Colorado
Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences (2008-Present)

Areas of Interest

Dr. Elkins has dual interests in Earth and Atmospheric Sciences: He is a geologist by training, having studied carbon isotopes in organic matter and cave deposits (speleothems), but he is most notably interested in earth science education.  His real passion is interdisciplinary education and the development of field-based experiences for students who are new to the subject of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences. He is a recipient of the Geological Society of America’s Biggs Award, GSA’ highest honor for excellence in Earth Science teaching.  Other interests of his include fluvial processes as they relate to gradient, volume, constriction and obstruction (whitewater) and emergency medicine.

• Elkins J. “Using Portable Media Players (iPod) to Support Electronic Course Materials During a Field-based Introductory Geology Course” Journal of Geoscience Education v. 57, n. 2, pp. 106-112, 2009.
• Elkins, J., Elkins, N.M.L., and Hemmings, S.N.J. ” GeoJourney: A nine-week introductory field program with an interdisciplinary approach to teaching geology, Native American cultures, and environmental studies” Journal of College Science Teaching, v. 37, n. 3, pp.18-28, 2008.
• Elkins, J. and Elkins, N.M.L. “Teaching Geology in the Field: Significant geoscience concept gains in entirely field-based introductory geology courses ” Journal of Geoscience Education v. 55, n. 2, pp. 126-132, 2007.
• Elkins, J., and Elkins, N.M. L., “Improving student learning during travel time on field trips using an innovative, portable audio/video system” Journal of Geoscience Education v. 54, n. 2, pp. 147-152, 2006.