Earth scope Earth science is the broadest in scope among the natural sciences. Rock (land), ocean, air and living organisms interact through physical, chemical and biological processes that move materials and energy on the Earth. This subject, thus, gives full understanding of the natural world we live in. The world is facing scientific challenges with regard to natural resources. Geosciences address ideological challenges and social issues. Vital industries like oil and mining need interaction with geoscientists for their developments . Hence, India must build strong departments of earth sciences with sustained leadership. > Subject Areas Geosciences fall under three categories : academic/research (for example, understanding origin and distribution of resources); developmental (making roads, bridges, dams, etc); and awareness ( global warming, climate, water and environment). > Academic Scenario Unfortunately, the subject is offered only after 10+2, although some knowledge about rocks, fossils and environment is integrated into general science courses in schools. Surprisingly, standardised tests for colleges do not list geosciences. In some universities, the subject is introduced at the undergraduate level with other science subjects. Postgraduate education in earth science at these institutions leads to an MSc degree in geology/geophysics in our country. However, Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs ) at Kharagpur, Mumbai , Roorkee and, more recently, at Bhubaneswar, have fullfledged department of earth sciences where admissions are made on the basis of JEE results. Also, earth science is a part of the five-year BS-MS dual degree programme in some of the recently-established IISER (Indian Institute of Science Education and Research), particularly in Kolkata, Mohali and Thiruvanathapuram . Candidates after +2 can get admission if they have qualified Kishore Vigyanik Protsahan Yojana (KVPY), JEE, and with high marks in state and central boards. These institutes give integrated education of basic sciences (not exclusively in geosciences) on the understanding that earth science is an integrated dynamic system and not a mere collection of isolated components of earth processes. Students can thereafter seek postgraduation and PhD in some chosen branch of earth sciences. > Related Courses Geoscience started as observational science using a hammer, clinometer-compass and a microscope . Modern earth science education uses sophisticated equipment and technological update. Newer courses on remote sensing , hydrology, environmental geology , engineering geology along with computer science offer a range of job opportunities. Co-operation with related fields, eg geosciences and civil engineering , open up job options outside their fields. Students should know that the geosciences discoveries and their application (i.e. technology ) help solve needs and problems of human society. The field of geosciences is poised phenomenally in the next five years and students can look forward to a solid career.
Posted on: Mon, 24 Jun 2013 04:00:27 +0000