Geology Rocks!
Geology Rocks! provides engaging, hands-on education about geology to participating schools to foster interests in Earth Sciences through interactive lessons and activities. The goal is to teach children about the importance of Earth’s materials and our dependence on natural resources by connecting SJSU Geology students to after-school enrichment programs such as the community-based organization CORAL (Communities Organizing Resources to Advance Learning).
In the 2024-2025 academic year, CommUniverCity collaborated with Professor LeAnne Teruya and her 108 GEOL 2 (Geology for Engineers) students to make geological concepts both comprehensible and exciting for elementary school students. Through activities, young learners were introduced to topics such as the Earth’s layers, minerals, and natural disasters.
This type of outreach not only enriches students’ understanding of science but also exposes K–5 learners to scientific vocabulary and concepts not typically covered in their standard curriculum—igniting curiosity and fostering early interest in STEM fields.
The benefit to SJSU students is also profound. Through creating and leading workshops, SJSU students apply theories and concepts learned in their classes to real-life examples, while also serving as role models to young learners. Overall, Geology Rocks! exemplified the positive impact of community partnerships in bridging educational gaps and fostering a passion for science among young learner
Project Impacts
84% of elementary school students enjoyed learning from and participating in the activities
82% of elementary students reported an increased interest in science and STEM
78% of the SJSU students reported that Geology Rocks! helped them better grasp course concepts
Participants*
Community Engaged Learners*
Cumulative Hours
Investment Value
Faculty Lead
LeAnne Teruya (Geology)
What people say?
* Community Participants include K–12 students engaged in educational activities and workshops, along with residents attending neighborhood events and celebrations.
* Community Engaged Learners (CEL) include SJSU students who apply course-based knowledge through activities and presentations for K–12 students, as well as Public Health, Communications, and Educational Counseling interns who work directly with the CommUniverCity team to implement projects.
* Investment Value encapsulates the total monetary worth of the CEL volunteer hours contributed to the project.