Geologic Map Instruction: A Critical Approach

摘要

Historical geologic map collections are useful tools for librarians to demonstrate the unique construction of knowledge within the academy. A collaboration between the library and faculty in a general education course resuscitated a long-overlooked geologic map collection for an exercise in contextual analysis grounded in critical theory. The visual attributes of the maps revealed more to students in the classroom more quickly than books or journals could, which served the one-shot class format. The maps allowed students to build geospa-tial literacy skills and to view several resources in their entirety to better understand the breadth of a geologic collection. Students were asked to unpack the power dynamics behind the science and reflect on how interest in certain geographic regions coincided with patterns of colonialism, armed conflict, and technological development. These factors drove the practice of cartography itself and still impact the international accessibility of these resources. Maps speak quickly and clearly to first-year students and engage them by virtue of their perennial relevance. They are powerful demonstrations of authority, regardless of discipline, and using them as teaching tools may drive the usage of otherwise overlooked collections.