Project-based learning and soil judging: Approaches to teaching the "hidden skills" in soil science

Abstract

Soil scientists are increasingly working in a multidisciplinary world where they interact with professionals from different disciplines and diverse end user groups. The ability to communicate, critically appraise, problem solve, and to be an effective team player are as important skills as the ability to describe soil profiles. The kinaesthetic approach embodied in soil judging allows the student to also connect with pedological theory; we posit that it is a pedagogically-aligned style of learning. At Lincoln University, we have adopted two approaches to address these issues. We have developed a 300 level course (advanced field research) which utilises project-based learning. The students form multidisciplinary groups. They choose a real world environmental “problem”, and design a research project to investigate the issue. Group work involves experimental design, data collection and analysis, plus communication of results. The groups “learn by doing”. Students are assessed on practical skills testing, report writing, reflective journal and presentation / communication skills. Students reported an increase in a diverse skill set: communication, critical reflection, teamwork and problem-solving skills. Soil judging in New Zealand is in its infancy compared to other countries, but the undergraduate student soil science society and academic staff have been enthusiastic in practicing soil description skills and have participated at a range of soil judging contests. Students report that they have become more confident in soil description and that it has stimulated their interest in learning about soil science. It may also be an effective recruitment pipeline into the discipline: offering students with a practical and kinaesthetic aptitude who perform well at soil judging an insight into the academic side of the soil science discipline. Both project based learning and soil judging are effective tools for students to acquire a valuable range of skills for a professional career in soil science or allied enterprises.