© NERC All rights reserved Teaching with Geological Models – The 3D revolution Holger Kessler Emma K Ward Steve Mathers Ricky Terrington Stephen Thorpe.

© NERC All rights reserved

Teaching with Geological Models – The 3D revolution

Holger Kessler

Emma K Ward

Steve Mathers

Ricky Terrington

Stephen Thorpe


Kessler, Mathers, Sobisch (2009) Computers & Geosciences

3D Modelling methodology in BGSGeologists capture their knowledge by constructing a series of interlinking cross-sections

The computer calculates a stack of watertight geological objects producing the

Geological framework model



Not only Geologists are going 3D …

3D Cities(Virtual-berlin.de)

3D Maps(Google Earth)

Virtual Societies(Second Life)

3D Architecture (http://designmind.ning.com/)


… but everyone is!

3D Kitchens

3D in medicine

3D Engineering


Geological Column“Residual” deposits River terraces Bagshot Formation London Clay FmHarwich FormationLambeth GroupThanet Sand FmChalk Group2400 km2

Geological Model of Greater London


The new BGS Strategy:

• to demonstrate the pro-active delivery of applied geoscience knowledge and services to universities whilst … effectively communicating the significance and benefits of these models

• BGS must improve the way we communicate geoscience in a useful and usable format for academics who are the next generation of geoscientists

• Produce innovative activities to engage young people and work in collaboration with the university sector to encourage the use of our data, information and expertise in support of teaching and research


The ideas are all in here…


• Spatial Thinking

Observing, manipulating, interpreting and predicting.

• Schema Theory

Learning rules of thumb (schema); new information is assimilated into existing schema.

• Authentic InquiryStudent-centred, active learning that engages students in questioning, critical thinking and problem solving.


Student Exercises• Using a student-tailored user guide let the student learn how

to use the 3D model software, then let the student explore the geology shown in the models. (Exploration Phase)

• Ask the student to see if they can identify certain rock sequences, the succession of rocks, and structures or faulting. Can they determine the dip and strike of certain beds? Can they draw a cross section of this area and then compare it with what the model produces? (Terms and Concepts Introduction Phase)

• Can the student hypothesise what may happen to the geology in this area in the future? Do they think this would be a good area for the disposal of waste? (The Application Phase)






Thank you

Wooden models made by Thomas Sopwith in 1841.

For more information contact Emma Ward ([email protected])

or Holger Kessler ([email protected])

© NERC All rights reserved Teaching with Geological Models – The 3D revolution Holger Kessler Emma K Ward Steve Mathers Ricky Terrington Stephen Thorpe.

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