Open University Geological Society

Why we study Earth Sciences

I reproduce here a few words that Stuart Monro (OBE) used to sum up at the close of the 2007 OUGS Symposium in Lancaster, because it encapsulates the essence of why we do what we do.

'So why study Our Dynamic Planet?

• It is a small blue ball hanging in the infinity of space
• but it is our home - a home we need to know more about
• the whole of life as we know it is underpinned by Earth Science

OUGS Information Officer, Oct 2007

We are almost as old as the Open University itself!

The idea for a geological society in the Open University (OU) was born during the first Summer School of the original geology course in 1972. It was actively supported and encouraged by the then Head of Earth Sciences Department, Professor Ian Gass. Since that time we have been pleased to be able to count on the Department's support in both our field and non-field activities, and have maintained a very close relationship with staff at The Open University, Milton Keynes and in the Regions. Some teaching members of the Department even started out as OU students.

However, this does not mean that the OUGS is an extension of the academic work of The Open University Earth Sciences Department. We are an independent organisation whose members have mainly come to enjoy geology through their teaching. But it should not be thought that the knowledge flows one-way. Many members of the society have been able in their own ways to contribute to the work of the OU both in the field of research and the many outreach activities organised. It is this close relationship that benefits everyone involved.

Studying a dyke complex on the Lizard Peninsula with Professor John Mather, Cornwall, UK. May 2007

Dykes or sills? learning about the Cyprus Ophiolite with Paul Williams. Cyprus, April 2007

You are the Expert

The OUGS is the second largest professional or amateur geological organisation in the United Kingdom.  It is certainly the largest student geological society and while size, as they say, isn't everything, we have a membership that is large enough and well enough spread throughout the British Isles and Mainland Europe to have 17 Branches each running events and providing a local focus for their members. Within the Society there are also enough members to provide a pool of expertise.  This pool consists of members who have been with the society since it was conceived, and have finished their degrees (some of whom are now OU tutors and staff), through to people who are joining for the first time and just starting their studies and those who just have an interest. If you think that being new to geology means that you don't have expertise, then please think again.  Almost certainly you know a rock exposure that no one else in the society knows much about.  If you really believe you don't have expertise - then by joining OUGS you won't remain in that state for long! And you are not excluded if you live in a town; shop fronts and buildings can be as interesting as rocks high on the Scottish mountains and are mostly far more accessible. And they're probably better exposed too since they've been cut and polished.

What does the Society offer?

• Over 200 field trips every year to reinforce and extend your knowledge organised both country and worldwide by 17 branches and centrally including:

  - beginners events;

  - revision events;

  - AGM and annual Dinner followed by a Sunday field trip;

  - an Annual Symposium weekend packed full of lectures and field trips;

  - a Winter social weekend - just because!

• The enjoyment of seeing and hearing about geology in the company of like minded people in some of the most stunning places in the world
   
• An instant support group if you are an earth science student - whatever your level or the institution you are studying with
   
• Contact with other members who are doing or have done the same studies as you
   
• The opportunity someday to lead your own trip - it is a society run by members after all!
   
• The Journal - produced twice annually, one issue containing research and general articles, the other the proceedings of the annual Symposium.
   
• A Society Newsletter produced every other month
   
• Regular Branch newsletters to keep the local group in touch
   
• AND - the OUGS Central and 17 Branch websites for the most up to date information.

OUGS  Branches

For a list of all Branches and their websites please click here.