Geocognition

"Geocognition is an interdisciplinary science that investigates the mental processes involved in geological observations and interpretations. Such processes are critical in enabling and enhancing our fundamental understanding of the Earth. Geocognition research requires both the rigorous application of cognitive science methodologies and a comprehensive understanding of geological phenomena. Such research may explore the cognitive processes of geoscience experts, novices or students, the general public and policy makers; indeed anyone who has (or should have) a stake in understanding the Earth." (King et al, 2008)

Lists of my current roles and projects, recent publications and presentations are provided below. Papers and presentations are also available to download from my blog.

Current Roles

September 2008 - present:
Advisory Panel Member: Learning across the Expert-Novice Continuum: Cognition in the Geosciences (NSF-REESE-funded collaborative project between Western Michigan University and Michigan State University

 September 2007 - present:
Associate Editor: Journal of Geoscience Education

May 2007 - July 2008:
Joint Earth Science Senior Advisor to the GEES Subject Centre (with Dr Jim Andrews).

Current Projects

Evaluating the Undergraduate Ambassadors Scheme from a Geography, Earth & Environmental Science (GEES) Perspective.

Experiences of a Geological Field Skills Training Course for Higher Education Faculty and Staff

Threshold Concepts in the Geosciences: 'Sticking Points' in the Geoscience Curriculum

Publications

Stokes, A., H. King & J.C. Libarkin (2007) Research in Science Education: Threshold Concepts. Journal of Geoscience Education Vol. 55 No. 5 pp434 -438 http://www.nagt.org/files/nagt/jge/columns/research_methodologies_science.pdf

King, H. (2006) Threshold Concepts and Troublesome Knowledge in Geography, Earth & Environmental Sciences (Editorial). Planet Special Edition, GEES Subject Centre, pp 2-3 http://www.gees.ac.uk/pubs/planet/index.htm#P17

King, H. (2006) Understanding spatial literacy: cognitive and curriculum perspectives. Planet Special Edition, GEES Subject Centre, pp 26-28 http://www.gees.ac.uk/pubs/planet/index.htm#P17

Presentations
October 2008 (Oral Presentation) The Emerging Field of Geocognition. Geological Society of America Annual Meeting, Houston

October 2008 (Poster) Researching Threshold Concepts: Ways of Thinking and Practising in the Geosciences.Geological Society of America Annual Meeting, Houston

June 2008 (Oral Presentation & Paper) The State of Evidence in Geoscience Education Research. NRC Workshop on Undergraduate STEM Education, Washington D.C.

October 2007 (Oral Presentation) Understanding Public Perceptions of Geoscience. Geological Society of America Annual Meeting, Denver

October 2007 (Poster) School Students' Perceptions of Career Opportunities in the Geosciences. Geological Society of America Annual Meeting, Denver