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Samuel
Student
Colorado City, Texas
1
Question
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Why is geology so complicated? I try my best but still can't get a hold of it. Is there a way i can be better at geology? Or do i need to chase another career?
Why is geology so complicated? I try my best but still can't get a hold of it. Is there a way i can be better at geology? Or do i need to chase another career?
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6 answers
Saad Awan
1
Answer
Updated
Saad’s Answer
As someone who has taken a few geology courses and is passionate about the subject. I will say that memorization is going to be your best friend.
Yes there are advanced processes that you need to understand in more difficult classes but make a habit of using flashcards as regularly as possible.
Another advice I have is try to become familiar with key phrases that might be repeated in multiple definitions e.g. allo- is associated with subdivisions like allotropy, allogenic, allostratigraphy etc.
Yes there are advanced processes that you need to understand in more difficult classes but make a habit of using flashcards as regularly as possible.
Another advice I have is try to become familiar with key phrases that might be repeated in multiple definitions e.g. allo- is associated with subdivisions like allotropy, allogenic, allostratigraphy etc.
Sean Williams
QA Test Engineer
3
Answers
Marana, Arizona
Updated
Sean’s Answer
Hello,
I wanted to chime in a bit here as I had a similar experience in college. I really wanted to do well in my Geology courses however I found myself struggling with the more advanced concepts and though I found the material to be interesting I think it helps adapting the way you are learning. I had a wonderful geology teacher in my first course which I loved but when moving on to subsequent courses without the same enthusiastic teacher I found was more difficult. I benefitted the most when I was able to find a few great courses online (youtube.com) as the visual learning seemed to help me the most. Adapt the way you are learning perhaps switch to a different book or lookup specific subject matter that is complicated. Each class your knowledge will expand and your foundational understanding will expand making it easier as you traverse your career. With that said if it is something you enjoy and/or have a passion for then pursue, pursue, pursue!
I wanted to chime in a bit here as I had a similar experience in college. I really wanted to do well in my Geology courses however I found myself struggling with the more advanced concepts and though I found the material to be interesting I think it helps adapting the way you are learning. I had a wonderful geology teacher in my first course which I loved but when moving on to subsequent courses without the same enthusiastic teacher I found was more difficult. I benefitted the most when I was able to find a few great courses online (youtube.com) as the visual learning seemed to help me the most. Adapt the way you are learning perhaps switch to a different book or lookup specific subject matter that is complicated. Each class your knowledge will expand and your foundational understanding will expand making it easier as you traverse your career. With that said if it is something you enjoy and/or have a passion for then pursue, pursue, pursue!
Alexis Rankine
Government consulting
1
Answer
Arlington, Virginia
Updated
Alexis’s Answer
Hello Samuel,
Feeling uncertain at times is entirely natural! It's crucial to remember that grappling with difficulties is an integral part of the learning journey. Here are some encouraging strategies that could aid you in overcoming these hurdles:
-Simplify the Subject: Geology might seem intricate due to its multitude of concepts. Attempt to dissect the subject into smaller, digestible portions. Concentrate on grasping one concept at a time before advancing to the next.
-Draw Parallels: The essence of geology lies in comprehending the Earth and its operations. Try to connect your learnings to real-world instances. These could be phenomena you've observed in your daily life or events highlighted in the media.
-Embrace Visual Aids: Geology is a highly visual discipline. Sketch diagrams, view videos, or utilize online interactive resources to aid you in visualizing and comprehending the concepts more effectively.
-Form Study Circles: Think about studying alongside friends or peers. Mutual learning can be highly beneficial, and it's an excellent method to make studying more engaging.
-Encourage Queries: Don't hesitate to pose questions, be it to your educator, peers, or even on online discussion platforms. Inquiring is one of the most effective ways to enhance your understanding.
-Consistent Practice: Like all subjects, consistency is vital in geology. Regularly revisit what you've absorbed and attempt practice problems or quizzes to reinforce your comprehension.
-Patience is Key: Finally, be kind to yourself. Learning is a gradual process, and it's perfectly fine to not grasp everything immediately. Maintain a positive attitude and keep persevering.
Always remember, everyone learns at their own speed, and it's perfectly okay to take your time. Don't hesitate to seek further assistance or guidance if needed. You're capable of this!
Feeling uncertain at times is entirely natural! It's crucial to remember that grappling with difficulties is an integral part of the learning journey. Here are some encouraging strategies that could aid you in overcoming these hurdles:
-Simplify the Subject: Geology might seem intricate due to its multitude of concepts. Attempt to dissect the subject into smaller, digestible portions. Concentrate on grasping one concept at a time before advancing to the next.
-Draw Parallels: The essence of geology lies in comprehending the Earth and its operations. Try to connect your learnings to real-world instances. These could be phenomena you've observed in your daily life or events highlighted in the media.
-Embrace Visual Aids: Geology is a highly visual discipline. Sketch diagrams, view videos, or utilize online interactive resources to aid you in visualizing and comprehending the concepts more effectively.
-Form Study Circles: Think about studying alongside friends or peers. Mutual learning can be highly beneficial, and it's an excellent method to make studying more engaging.
-Encourage Queries: Don't hesitate to pose questions, be it to your educator, peers, or even on online discussion platforms. Inquiring is one of the most effective ways to enhance your understanding.
-Consistent Practice: Like all subjects, consistency is vital in geology. Regularly revisit what you've absorbed and attempt practice problems or quizzes to reinforce your comprehension.
-Patience is Key: Finally, be kind to yourself. Learning is a gradual process, and it's perfectly fine to not grasp everything immediately. Maintain a positive attitude and keep persevering.
Always remember, everyone learns at their own speed, and it's perfectly okay to take your time. Don't hesitate to seek further assistance or guidance if needed. You're capable of this!
Katherine Kelly
Consultant
2
Answers
Washington, Washington
Updated
Katherine’s Answer
I'm by no means a geologist, but I think this is a question that a lot of people ask themselves no matter what topic they're having issues with. I remember I had quite a bit of trouble with a coding class I took in college as part of my major.
My advice would be to constantly go in to your teacher or professor's office/tutoring hours and ask for help. I was always in my professor's office every time I had a question about an assignment and she would always give me helpful advice that made the assignments (and exams) much easier.
Professors and teachers also genuinely like when students come in and ask for help. They'd rather see you in their office hours multiple times a week asking a bunch of questions than coming in at the end of the semester asking what extra credit you can do to get your grade up. You can also visit other professors/teachers if you don't think yours is being helpful.
I'd also not stress too much if this is just one geology class you're having a hard time with. Every major has a difficult class or two that makes people question if they're really cut out for the career that comes with it.
My advice would be to constantly go in to your teacher or professor's office/tutoring hours and ask for help. I was always in my professor's office every time I had a question about an assignment and she would always give me helpful advice that made the assignments (and exams) much easier.
Professors and teachers also genuinely like when students come in and ask for help. They'd rather see you in their office hours multiple times a week asking a bunch of questions than coming in at the end of the semester asking what extra credit you can do to get your grade up. You can also visit other professors/teachers if you don't think yours is being helpful.
I'd also not stress too much if this is just one geology class you're having a hard time with. Every major has a difficult class or two that makes people question if they're really cut out for the career that comes with it.
Carla Luciano
Technical Program/Project Manager, Intelligent Automation
8
Answers
Hillsdale, New Jersey
Updated
Carla’s Answer
Hi Samuel!
I agree with Michelle's reply in that it would help to have some more information about what type of Geology class it is but hopefully I can help offer some additional guidance to you here. Definitely do not give up! If you feel like Geology is what you want to do, then go after it! A lot of the time it is not the student, it is the person who is teaching it that isn't too helpful. Recently I helped several high school students who were taking physics with getting over that hump. All of them were so disappointed and frustrated and felt like they weren't getting anywhere. One of them even said, I used to want to be a NASA engineer, but I can't even get better than a C in physics! I used the analogy of anyone in sports who has gotten injured and wanted to just quit. They didn't give up and you shouldn't either! If this is your passion and it excites you, then stick with it. I know it's easier said than done, but maybe you need a boost. I also agree with Michelle in that you should look for videos and short learning bites that can help. Are there tutors out there that might be able to help? If it's a college level class, are there other geology teachers or teaching assistants who can help? Can you get involved in a group that focuses on this topic area? Take it all one step at a time and keep at it if it is something that makes you happy and gives you strength. Wishing you lots of luck and success! You too can get over this because it's just a bump in the road.
I agree with Michelle's reply in that it would help to have some more information about what type of Geology class it is but hopefully I can help offer some additional guidance to you here. Definitely do not give up! If you feel like Geology is what you want to do, then go after it! A lot of the time it is not the student, it is the person who is teaching it that isn't too helpful. Recently I helped several high school students who were taking physics with getting over that hump. All of them were so disappointed and frustrated and felt like they weren't getting anywhere. One of them even said, I used to want to be a NASA engineer, but I can't even get better than a C in physics! I used the analogy of anyone in sports who has gotten injured and wanted to just quit. They didn't give up and you shouldn't either! If this is your passion and it excites you, then stick with it. I know it's easier said than done, but maybe you need a boost. I also agree with Michelle in that you should look for videos and short learning bites that can help. Are there tutors out there that might be able to help? If it's a college level class, are there other geology teachers or teaching assistants who can help? Can you get involved in a group that focuses on this topic area? Take it all one step at a time and keep at it if it is something that makes you happy and gives you strength. Wishing you lots of luck and success! You too can get over this because it's just a bump in the road.
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1879
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Samuel !
Thanks for reaching out for advice about a subject that you want to learn. Are you talking about college or high school Geology ? My advice would be more accurate if I knew that. Also if I knew exactly what was the difficulty.
Geology is an interesting subject and encompasses a great deal of other subjects. My first reaction when someone says that they're finding a subject to be difficult is that they do not have an efficient teacher. Geology can be exciting with constant revelations and field work. Maybe it is just your teacher and the structure of the course. I would advise not giving up on it because there are many more classes you'd be taking and one cannot judge a possible career by one class that isn't working out. There'll be many more courses you will take.
Consider researching online Geology courses. That will be at your own pace and self-directing and it may reassure you that you're understanding the information. I have left a link for you below for some free online courses, but you need to find more, preferably a basic Introduction to Geology. I would not advise jumping initially to the advanced courses so that you can have a foundational understanding of terms and concepts. Do a search online for "Introduction to Geology" and in addition, go to You Tube and search for "Geology Lectures". It just may be the breath of fresh air you need to reassure you that you can learn and understand Geology.
I had only one very inefficient professor in college and it was for a required general ed course which I had to take. The subject wasn't boring but the professor was always lecturing on things that were absolutely never on the exams. It was frustrating, yes, but even though I took copious notes, read the textbook, the exams were a complete enigma. So if one course in your interest doesn't work out, you will see that taking other avenues will be better and it's important to start with an introduction and overview of geology because geology can be deep. If you have challenges while taking any subject, meet with your teacher to discuss it.
I hope this is helpful and I advise not leaving Geology. You can do it !
FREE GEOLOGY COURSES ONLINE https://learningpath.org/articles/Free_Online_Geology_Courses_from_Top_Universities.html
Thanks for reaching out for advice about a subject that you want to learn. Are you talking about college or high school Geology ? My advice would be more accurate if I knew that. Also if I knew exactly what was the difficulty.
Geology is an interesting subject and encompasses a great deal of other subjects. My first reaction when someone says that they're finding a subject to be difficult is that they do not have an efficient teacher. Geology can be exciting with constant revelations and field work. Maybe it is just your teacher and the structure of the course. I would advise not giving up on it because there are many more classes you'd be taking and one cannot judge a possible career by one class that isn't working out. There'll be many more courses you will take.
Consider researching online Geology courses. That will be at your own pace and self-directing and it may reassure you that you're understanding the information. I have left a link for you below for some free online courses, but you need to find more, preferably a basic Introduction to Geology. I would not advise jumping initially to the advanced courses so that you can have a foundational understanding of terms and concepts. Do a search online for "Introduction to Geology" and in addition, go to You Tube and search for "Geology Lectures". It just may be the breath of fresh air you need to reassure you that you can learn and understand Geology.
I had only one very inefficient professor in college and it was for a required general ed course which I had to take. The subject wasn't boring but the professor was always lecturing on things that were absolutely never on the exams. It was frustrating, yes, but even though I took copious notes, read the textbook, the exams were a complete enigma. So if one course in your interest doesn't work out, you will see that taking other avenues will be better and it's important to start with an introduction and overview of geology because geology can be deep. If you have challenges while taking any subject, meet with your teacher to discuss it.
I hope this is helpful and I advise not leaving Geology. You can do it !
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