Field science in the age of online learning: Dynamic instruction of techniques to assess soil physical properties

Soil physical properties, such as soil texture, color, bulk density, and porosity are important determinants of water flow (e.g., infiltration drainage), biogeochemical cycling, plant community composition. In addition, they reflect the environment in which developed, giving insight into climate, mineralogy, land cover. While many assessments require sophisticated laboratory equipment, some can be made simply by a trained individual, requiring only practice reference materials. For students environmental fields, it is particularly empowering to learn how make informed observations that provide insights from pedon landscape done within field setting. Drawing on updated pedagogical approaches, including active learning, small group collaboration, metacognitive exercises, this paper presents course module for teaching texture color analysis modified secondary through graduate school. The combination asynchronous, pre-course readings assessment; synchronous, in-class instruction, hands-on practice, application activities; post-class reflection give opportunity build strong foundation making observations. This suitable both in-person remote learning modalities adapted number topics across disciplines. Ultimately, goal with exciting, training inspires them more about soils regardless platform.