An evaluation of teaching introductory geomorphology using computer-based tools

This paper compares student reactions to traditional teaching approaches with those that also include computer-based components. The traditional teaching approach involved lectures, assigned readings from a textbook and a variety of hands-on exercises. As a supplement to the traditional approach, students also utilised computer-based tools. One of the computer-based tools was a prepackaged CD-ROM to complement the textbook readings. The second computer tool, used in the laboratory component of the course, was a simplified geographical information system (GIS) interface to create digital descriptions of landforms. The results show that students found both the CD-ROM- and the GIS-based exercises valuable forms of instruction when used in combination with the traditional methods.