Phone: 616-331-3728
Fax: 616-331-3740
Geology Department
geodept@gvsu.edu

Padnos Hall of Science # 118
One Campus Drive
Allendale, MI 49401

 Heather R. Miller - Assistant Professor of Geology

The Seymour K. & Esther R. Padnos Hall of Science 135
One Campus Drive
Allendale, Michigan 49401-9403
Office Telephone: (616)-331-3164
Office Fax: (616)-331-3740
Electronic Mail: millehea@GVSU.edu

Education:

Ph.D. Geology and Geophysics - Texas A&M University (expected 2009)
M.S. Geoscience - Texas A&M University (2004)
B.S. Marine Science - Texas A&M University at Galveston (1997)

Research Interests:

My research explores the interaction between human society and complex surficial ecohydrological systems, specifically characterizing the interactions and dynamics in coastal ecosystems in regard to water availability, soil salinity, and plant distribution in Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge in South Texas. I am also interested in the nature of novices’ development and use of conceptual models about these complex surficial systems. This research concentrates on the development of effective learning environments that meet learning goals about complex earth systems through student engagement in authentic inquiry. The structure and design of my Ph.D. is an example of a model that creates synergy between scientific research and education by using the products of my science research about a coastal ecohydrological system to support teacher professional development and student engagement in authentic inquiry about these systems.

Selected Publications:

Markley, C.E., Miller, H.R., Kneeshaw, T., & Herbert, B.E. (2009).  Influence of Teachers’ Conceptions on Classroom Education in Geology at a Research University. Journal of Geoscience Education, v. 57(4), p. 213-223.

McNeal, K.S., Miller, H.R. & Herbert, B.E. (2008). Student Conceptual Model Development of Coastal Eutrophication in an Introductory Physical Geology Course. Journal of Geoscience Education, v. 56(3), p. 201-211.
  Last Modified Date: October 13, 2009
Copyright © 1995 - 2009 Grand Valley State University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Institution