My Curriculum Vitae

Appointments

Full Professor (2012 to present) at the Community College of Rhode Island
Associate Professor (2007 to 2011) at the Community College of Rhode Island
Assistant Professor (2001 to 2006) at the Community College of Rhode Island

Education

Ph.D. in Geoscience (May 2009) University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI
• Dissertation: Alternative Conceptions of Introductory Geoscience Students and a Method to Reduce Them

Masters of Science in Geological Sciences (Fall 2001) Brown University, Providence, RI
• Masters Thesis: Alba Patera, Mars: New Insights Using MOLA and MOC Data
• Honorable Mention National Science Foundation Scholarship, 1999

Bachelor of Arts in Geology (May 1998) Pomona College, Claremont, CA
• Graduated Magna Cum Laude
• Awarded Pomona College Geology Department Award, 1998
• Undergraduate Thesis: An Unusual Lava Flow in the Carson Quadrangle, Venus
 

Awards and Recognitions

• 2023 NAGT GER Transformation Award
• 2023, 2022 CTE Knight, Gold Level
• 2023 OSCQR Levels 1, 2, and 3 Course Reviewer certified
• 2022-23 Geoscience Information Society Best Paper Award (The impact of COVID-19 on the Journal of Geoscience Education community by A. Jolley, K. Ryker, K.M. Kortz, and E.M. Riggs)
• 2022 Two teaching activities rated as exemplary and accepted into the peer-reviewed On the Cutting Edge Exemplary Teaching Activity collection: "Geologic Issues: Community Impacts and Science Communication" and "Online Discussion Prompts for Introductory Geology"
• 2020 Four teaching activities rated as exemplary and accepted into the peer-reviewed On the Cutting Edge Exemplary Teaching Activity collection: “Unit 1: Collecting GPS Data”, “Unit 2: Earthquakes, GPS, and Plate Movement”, “Unit 3: Glaciers, GPS, and Sea Level Rise” and “Unit 4: Groundwater, GPS, and Water Resources”
• 2014 Elected to be a Geological Society of America (GSA) Fellow
• 2014 Phi Theta Kappa (2YC International Honor Society) Outstanding Faculty Award (2014) from the Pi Omicron Chapter at CCRI
• 2014 Fostering Innovative Teaching Award from the Center for Innovative Teaching Learning and Assessment (CITLA) at CCRI
• 2014 Recognized as a Top Community Contributor to the On the Cutting Edge webpage
• 2013-2014 Three teaching activities rated as exemplary and accepted into the peer-reviewed On the Cutting Edge Exemplary Teaching Activity collection:Groundwater Consulting Lab, VEPP: Determining the relationship between the summit and Pu'u 'O'o on Kilauea, Flood Curves Lecture Tutorial 
• 2012 Outstanding Paper Award from the Journal of Geoscience Education (Alternative conceptions of plate tectonics held by non-science undergraduates by S.K. Clark, J. Libarkin, K.M. Kortz, and S. Jordan)
• 2008 Biggs Award for Excellence in Earth Science Teaching from the Geoscience Education Division of the Geological Society of America and the National Association of Geology Teachers
• 2008 Chrysalis Scholarship from the Association for Women Geoscientists
• 2006 Dedicated Professor Award from the Honors Students at the Community College of Rhode Island
 

Peer-Reviewed Publications
(* student coauthor)

The impact of COVID-19 on the Journal of Geoscience Education community. A. Jolley, K. Ryker, K.M. Kortz, E.M. Riggs. Journal of Geosocience Education, 71, 129-144, 2023. (doi: 10.1080/10899995.2022.21108352023)
**won the 2022-23 Geoscience Information Society Best Paper Award

Leveraging a Service Experience into a Course-Based Undergraduate Research Experience in an Introductory Geology Classroom. K.J. van der Hoeven Kraft and K.M. Kortz. Scholarship and Practice of Undergraduate Research, 4, 3, 2021. (doi: 10.18833/spur/4/3/2)

Affective factors during field research that influence intention to persist in the geosciences. K.M. Kortz, D. Cardace, and B. Savage. Journal of Geoscience Education, 68, 133-151, 2020.

“Geologic Issues: Community Impacts and Science Communication” - An introductory geoscience assignment designed to help underrepresented minority students see value in the geosciences. L.A. Reinen and K.M. Kortz. Journal of Geoscience Education, 67, 400-416, 2019. (doi: 10.1080/10899995.2019.1630885). Assignment also available through the Teach the Earth website.

Editorial: Introduction to the Theme: Synthesizing Results and Defining Future Directions of Geoscience Education Research. K.S. McNeal, K. St. John, K.M. Kortz, E. Nagy-Shadman, and E. Riggs. Journal of Geoscience Education 65, 347–352, 2017.

Establishing and applying literature-based criteria for effective communication of science to novices via introductory geology textbooks. K.M. Kortz, A.M. Grenga*, J.J. Smay, Journal of Geoscience Education, 65, 48-59, 2017. (doi: 10.5408/16-205.1)

Geoscience Education Research Project: Student Benefits and Effective Design of a Course-Based Undergraduate Research Experience. K.M. Kortz and K. van der Hoeven Kraft, Journal of Geoscience Education, 64, 24-36, 2016. (doi: 1089-9995/2016/64(1)/24/13)

How Making Research Part of the College Curriculum Helps Prepare Students for the Workforce. J. Mullaney and K.M. Kortz, The College & University Research Collaborative. 2016. http://www.collaborativeri.org/research/how-making-research-part-of-the-college-curriculum

Un-packaging Manuscript Preparation and Review Guidelines for Curriculum and Instruction and Research Papers. K. St. John, H. Petcovic, A. Stokes, L. Arthurs, C. Callahan, T. Feig, A. Gates, K. Gray, K. Kortz, K. McNeal, E. Nagy-Shadman, R. Teed, and J. Van Hoesen. Journal of Geoscience Education, 64, p. 1-4, 2016. (doi: 1089-9995/2016/64(1)/1/4)

Introductory geology: Is there a common language?. K.M. Kortz, and A.R. Caulkins*, GSA Today, v. 25, no. 10, p. 42-43, 2015. (doi: 10.1130/GSATG236GW.1.)

Sleuthing Through the Rock Cycle: An online guided inquiry tool for middle and high school geoscience education. L. Schifman*, D. Cardace, K.M. Kortz, K. Saul, A. Gilfert*, A.I. Veeger, and D.P. Murray, Journal of Geoscience Education, 61, 268-279, 2013. (doi: 10.5408/12-326.1)

How undergraduate students misread cladograms. K.M. Kortz, J.P. Swaddle, and D.E. Fastovsky, in Teaching Paleontology in the Twenty-First Century, The Paleontological Society Special Publications, Volume 12, M.M. Yacobucci and R. Lockwood, editors, p. 123-134, 2012.

Alternative conceptions of plate tectonics held by non-science undergraduates. S.K. Clark, J. Libarkin, K.M. Kortz, S. Jordan, Journal of Geoscience Education, v 59, p. 251-262, 2011. (doi:10.5408/1.3651696)
**Won the 2012 Outstanding Paper Award from the Journal of Geoscience Education

Counting tectonic plates: A study of college student conceptions of plates and boundaries.  K.M. Kortz, S.K. Clark, B. Viveiros*, J.J. Smay, K. Gray, and D. Steer, in Qualitative Inquiry in Geoscience Education Research, A. Feig, and A. Stokes, editors, Geological Society of America Special Paper, 171-188, 2011.

Barriers to college students learning how rocks form. K.M. Kortz and D.P. Murray, Journal of Geoscience Education, v. 57, p. 300-315, 2009. (doi:10.5408/1.3544282)

Lecture Tutorials: On the Cutting Edge - Teaching Methods: A collection of pedagogical techniques and example activities. K.M. Kortz and J.J. Smay, 2009.

Analysis of Student Responses to Peer-Instruction Conceptual Questions Answered Using an Electronic Response System: Trends by Gender and Ethnicity. D. Steer, D. McConnell, K. Gray, K.M. Kortz, X. Liang, Science Educator, v. 18, p. 30-38, 2009.

Increasing student learning in introductory geoscience courses using Lecture Tutorials. K.M. Kortz, J.J. Smay, and D.P. Murray, Journal of Geoscience Education, v. 56, p. 280-290, 2008.

Emplacement of long lava flows within a graben network in Radunitsa Labyrinthus, Carson Quadrangle, Venus. K.M. Jager, E.B. Grosfils, and S.E.H. Sakimoto, Geophysical Research Letters, v. 30, n. 17, 1908-1911, 2003.

Martian soil simulant available for scientific, educational study. C.C. Allen, K.M. Jager, R.V. Morris, D.J. Lindstrom, M.M. Lindstrom, and J.P. Lockwood, Eos Trans. AGU, vol 79 no 34, 1998.

JSC Mars-1: A Martian soil simulant. C.C. Allen, K.M. Jager, R.V. Morris, D.J. Lindstrom, M.M. Lindstrom, and J.P. Lockwood, Space 98 (R.G. Galloway and S. Lokaj, eds.), pp. 469-476, American Society of Civil Engineers, New York, NY, 1998.
 

Books and Book Supplements

Focus on Geology. K.M. Kortz and J.J. Smay. 2019 ISBN: 1732629617 (ebook available on RedShelf)

Lecture Tutorials for the Earth Sciences, second edition. K.M. Kortz and J.J. Smay, MacMillan, 2019.

Lecture Tutorials for Introductory Geosciences, third edition. K.M. Kortz and J.J. Smay, MacMillan, 2019.

Lecture Tutorials for the Earth Sciences. K.M. Kortz and J.J. Smay, W.H. Freeman, 2014. ISBN:  1464123535

Lecture Tutorials for Introductory Geosciences, second edition. K.M. Kortz and J.J. Smay, W.H. Freeman, 2012. ISBN: 1464101051

Lecture Tutorials for Introductory Geosciences. K.M. Kortz and J.J. Smay, W.H. Freeman, 2010.  ISBN: 1429253789

Student self study questions for Essential Earth on Geology Portal for W.H. Freeman, with J.J. Smay, 2011.

Visual Learning Tasks in Essential Earth by Jordan and Grotzinger for W.H. Freeman, with J.J. Smay, 2011.

Image Map Questions and Ranking Task Questions on Geology Portal for W.H. Freeman, with J.J. Smay, 2010.

Lecture Tutorials, a supplement for Dinosaurs: A Concise Natural History. K.M. Kortz, Cambridge University Press, 2009.
 

Selected Abstracts, Presentations, and Other Publications
(*student coauthor)

K.M. Kortz (2023) Using a Gamified Course Design in Introductory Geology to Support Student Success. GSA Abstract.

K.M. Kortz (2023) Developing a Gamified Geology Course and Evaluating its Effectiveness. CTE Spring Symposium poster presentation.

D.M. Rieger, K.M. Kortz, and P. White (2023) Assessing Geology as a HELP Course. CTE Spring Symposium poster presentation.

J.N. Egan-Kunicki, A.M. Vanner, K.M. Kortz, and B. Leasher (2023) Interdisciplinary Applications of Gamified Course Design. CTE Spring Symposium poster presentation.

K.M. Kortz and R. Hart (2023) Developing an Online Gamified Solar System Astronomy Course and a Preliminary Evaluation of its Effectiveness. RI Space Grant Annual Spring Symposium poster presentation.

B. Thompson, S. Kanjula, K.M. Kortz, L. Andreozzi Fontaine, C. Pogue, and D. Miller (2022) The Honors Forum: A Best Practice in Student Learning & Community Building. NCHC abstract.

L. Massemini*, J. Banspach*, and K.M. Kortz (2020) The representation of race and gender in a new geology textbook. GSA Abstract.

K.M. Kortz and J.J. Smay (2020) Teaching introductory geology online: an example course design to increase student motivation. GSA Abstract.

J. Bobea, L. Andreozzi Fontaine, K.M. Kortz, J. Haseleu. (2020) A Big Heart Is Not Hard To Find: Helping Students Go Farther Through Honors Contracts. NCHC abstract.

L.A. Reinen and K.M. Kortz. (2019) Geologic Issues: Community Impacts and Science
Communication” — An introductory geoscience assignment designed to help underrepresented
minority students see value in the geosciences. SoCAL PKAL Conference abstract.

K.M. Kortz, A.M. Grenga*, B. Savage, D. Cardace, D.M. Rieger, S. Harik*. (2018) Differences in interest and desire to major in introductory courses by gender and minority status. GSA annual meeting abstract.

Invited Presentation: K.M. Kortz and J.J. Smay (2018) Improving student outcomes in introductory geoscience courses with Lecture Tutorials. GSA annual meeting abstract.

L.A. Reinen and K.M. Kortz (2018) Engaging and empowering students historically underrepresented in geoscience through an introductory-level community-centered writing assignment. AGU Fall Meeting.

D. Cardace, K.M. Kortz, D. Rieger, B. Savage, A. Grenga* (2018) The importance of situational factors in classroom, field, and laboratory settings to recruitment and retention in the geosciences for 2YC and early 4YC undergraduates. AGU Fall Meeting.

A. Grenga*, K.M. Kortz, S. Harik*, and B. Savage (2018) Changes in interest and desire to major in geoscience during introductory geology courses. Earth Educators Rendezvous 2018.

K. Ryker and K.M. Kortz (2018) Implementing the Geoscience Education Research Project as a Poster in Intro Courses. Share-a-Thon Presentation at Earth Educator's Rendezvous 2018.

A. Grenga* and K.M. Kortz (2018) Seeing Anew: Understanding and Broadening Minority and Female Participation in the Geosciences. 2018 Northeast Regional Honors Council Conference.

N. Shah*, K.M. Kortz, and D. Cardace (2017) Chemical Flags of Oxidation from Serpentinization in CROMO Wells. 2017 AGU Undergraduate Virtual Poster Showcase - Fall 2017 [89].

S. Harik*, K.M. Kortz, and D. Cardace (2017) Spatial examination of travertine deposit mineralogy in the Coast Range Ophiolite. 2017 AGU Undergraduate Virtual Poster Showcase - Fall 2017 [95].

N. Insolia*, D. Cardace, and K.M. Kortz (2017) Clarifying the source of groundwater at the Coast Range Ophiolite Microbial Observatory (CROMO). 2017 AGU Undergraduate Virtual Poster Showcase - Fall 2017 [96].

S. Heinonen*, D. Cardace, and K.M. Kortz (2017) Temporal variation in mineralogy of travertine deposits in the Coast Range Ophiolite. 2017 AGU Undergraduate Virtual Poster Showcase - Fall 2017 [106].

J. Hecker*, D. Cardace, and K.M. Kortz (2017) Ex Situ Microbial Cultures of Natural Waters Using Serpentinite Substrate. 2017 AGU Undergraduate Virtual Poster Showcase - Fall 2017 [102].

K.M. Kortz, D. Cardace, B. Savage, D. Reiger (2017) Field research internships: Why they impact students’ decisions to major in the geosciences. AGU Abstract.

K.M. Kortz, B. Savage, D. Reiger, D. Cardace (2017) A Joint 2YC-4YC CURE to Improve Student Retention and Success (invited). GSA Abstract 334-3.

K.M. Kortz, D. Cardace, B. Savage, D. Reiger (2017) Factors during field research that affect students’ decisions to become or remain geoscience majors. GSA Abstract 78-8.

K.M. Kortz, D. Cardace, D. Reiger, B. Savage (2017) A Joint 2YC-4YC Research Methods Course to Increase Transfers and Improve Success. EER Abstract.

J. Davis*, D. Cardace, K.M. Kortz, D. Rieger, B. Savage (2017) A new dual enrollment research skills class to build confidence and interest in a population of potential geoscience majors. Northeast GSA Abstracts with Programs 39-2, v49, n2.

K.M. Kortz and J.J. Smay (2016) Research-informed innovative textbook pages: Student learning and attitudes. GSA Abstract 306-9, v48, n7.

K.M. Kortz, J. Mullaney, H. Townsend, M. Coclin, D. Rieger, L. Malaret, and R. Traficante (2016) Using faculty learning communities to support faculty creation of undergraduate research experiences. GSA Abstract 305-1, v48, n7.

B. Savage, K.M. Kortz, D. Cardace, D. Rieger (2016) Improving geoscience education pathways through engaging scientific and career experiences: Progress and logistics. GSA Abstract 247-4, v48, n7.

A.M. Grenga* and K.M. Kortz (2016) Communicating science via textbooks: What terms do students recognize as geologic? Northeast GSA Abstract.

D. Cardace, K.M. Kortz, B. Savage, and D. Rieger (2016) Improving geoscience education pathways through engaging scientific and career experiences. Northeast GSA Abstract.

A.M. Grenga* and K.M. Kortz (2016) Vocabulary Load of Scientific Figures in Introductory Geology Textbooks: Implications for Improving Textbook Communication. American Geophysical Union Virtual Poster Showcase.

A.M. Grenga* and K.M. Kortz (2016) Use of Scientific Terminology in Introductory Geology Textbooks: A discussion on recognition versus conceptual understanding. NRHC Abstract.

D. Cardace, K.M. Kortz, B. Savage, and D. Rieger (2015) Improving geoscience education pathways through engaging scientific and career experiences. GSA Abstract 187-9. v47, n7, p478.

L. Andreozzi-Fontaine, P. Jones, S. Jones, K.M. Kortz (2015) Honors by Contract: the Good, the Bad, and the Measurable. NCHC Abstract.

J. Trucker, K.M. Kortz, L. Andreozzi-Fontaine (2016) Visibility, Growth, and Quality Control: The Birth and Development of Community College Honors Programs in Three Stages. NCHC Abstract.

K.M. Kortz (2015) Students Learn Geosciences by Research the Perspectives of Classmates. In the Trenches, v. 5, n. 2, p. 5-6.

K.M. Kortz and J.J. Smay (2015) Essential terms for introductory students: Do textbooks provide the answer?. Earth Educators Rendezvous Abstract.

K.M. Kortz and J.J. Smay (2014) The portrayal of geoscientists in introductory geology textbooks. GSA Abstract 333-.

K. Viskupik, D. Steer, K.M. Kortz, D. Perkins, K. Wirth, B. Herbert, J. Singer, and C. Manduca (2014) Monitoring undergraduate grown through the major using embedded assessment questions. GSA Abstract 244-.

K.M. Kortz, W. Berry, and B. Orcutt (2014) Panelist for Assignment Design, Parameters and Supplementary Documents. Multi-State Collaborative to Advance Learning Outcomes Assessment, Tri-State Professional Development Day.

K.M. Kortz and A. Caulkins* (2014) Are introductory geology textbooks a foreign language to students? Foundations, Newsletter of the Geo2YC division of the National Association of Geoscience Teachers, Volume III, Issue 1: February 2014.

K.M. Kortz, N. Evans*, N. Podmaska*, and A. Tevyaw* (2013) A semester-long research experience in geoscience education for introductory students. GSA Abstract 177-1.

N. Evans*, K.M. Kortz, D. Cardace (2013) How well do college students with little to no geoscience experience identify and understand the formation of landcapes? GSA Abstract 125-14.

K.M. Kortz, J.J. Smay, and S.R. Thomas (2012) Applying the literature on how students learn to create visual curricula. GSA Abstract 35-3.

K.M. Kortz and J.J. Smay (2012) Comparing textbooks: Words, terms, and student preferences. GSA Abstract 123-8.

D. Cardace, L.A. Schifman*, K.M. Kortz, K. Saul, A.I. Veeger, and D.P. Murray (2012) Bringing geoscientific practices to schools through guided inquiry and the NSF-MSP-funded RITES Project. AGU Abstract.

K. Saul, K.M. Kortz, D.P. Murray (2012) Sleuthing through the rock cycle: An inquiry-based investigation teaching the rock cycle to middle school students. Northeast GSA Abstract.

D.P. Murray, J.I. Sammons, K.M. Kortz, and J.L. Caulkins (2012) Shake, Rattle & Rock: An inquiry- and technology based approach to teaching plate tectonics and geohazards to middle and high school students. Northeast GSA Abstract.

L.A. Schifman*, D.Cardace, J.L. Caulkins, K.M. Kortz, and K. Saul (2012) Documenting the design and in-classroom success of an online learning module covering the rock cycle created by the NSF-MSP funded RITES project. Northeast GSA Abstract.

J. Caulkins, K.M. Kortz, D.P. Murray (2011) Developing Partnerships between Higher Education Faculty, K-12 Science Teachers and School Administrators via MSP initiatives: The RITES Model. AGU Abstract.

D. Cardace, J. Caulkins, K.M. Kortz, K. Saul, and L. Schifman (2011) Developing Guided Inquiry On-line Resources for the Middle and High School Science Classroom: the NSF-MSP-funded RITES Project. AGU Abstract.

Invited Presentation: K.M. Kortz and J.J. Smay (2011) Assessing learning gains from implementing Lecture Tutorials in the classroom. GSA Abstract 46-3.

Invited Presentation: K.M. Kortz (2011) Misconceptions of Rock Formation in Middle School Students. GSA Abstract 221-4.

K.M. Kortz and A.R. Gilfert* (2011) Geology as a World Language: The case of language versus conceptual understanding. GSA Abstract 265-11.

A.R. Gilfert*, K.M. Kortz, D.P. Murray, J. Caulkins, K. Saul (2011) Effects of Technology-Enhanced Inquiry on Middle School Students' Understanding of The Rock Cycle. GSA Abstract 245-122.

K.M. Kortz (2011) Two-Year College Insights: Personal Response Systems Click with Students and Faculty. In the Trenches, v. 1, n. 1, p. 11.

J. Armour, D. Steer, J. Knox, K.M. Kortz, S. Semken, A. Holmes, and J. Libarkin (2011) Collaborative Research: Evaluating student learning in geoscience curricula that employ conceptests using electronic student response systems. Transforming Undergraduate Education in STEM: Making and Measuring Impacts (2011) CCLI/TUES Principle Investigators Conference, 0716523.

K.M. Kortz and J.J. Smay (2010) How students count tectonic plates in various cross-sections. GSA Abstract 248-28.

K.M. Kortz (2010) Does peer discussion during the use of clicker questions result in deep learning? GSA Abstract 235-5.

A.R. Scoufos*, K.M. Kortz, D.P. Murray, and K. Saul (2010) Increasing secondary education science teachers' knowledge of the rock cycle through a short course. GSA Abstract 248-29.

J.J. Smay and K.M. Kortz (2010) A set of concept-based questions for use in introductory geoscience courses: Image map questions and ranking tasks. GSA Abstract 248-45.

J.J. Smay and K.M. Kortz (2010) Solar System Lecture Tutorials for Intro Astronomy, Meeting of the Astronomical Society of the Pacific.

K.M. Kortz, J.J. Smay, A.V. Mattera*, S.K. Clark (2009) Reducing Plate Tectonic Misconceptions with Lecture Tutorials, Eos Trans. AGU, 90(52), Fall Meet. Suppl., Abstract ED23A-0543.

K.M. Kortz, D.P. Murray, and J.J. Smay (2009) Introductory Geoscience Students’ Understanding of Rock Types. GSA Abstract 91-13.

K.M. Kortz (2009) Promoting student success at a community college without a geoscience program. GSA Abstract 90-7.

K.M. Kortz, D.P. Murray, and J.J. Smay (2009) Why students have difficulties learning about rocks and their formation, Northeast Geological Society of America, Abstract v.41, n. 3.

K.M. Kortz, D.P. Murray, and J.J. Smay (2008) Students' Conceptions of Rocks and Rock Formation. GSA Abstract 274-9.

K.M. Kortz, D.E. Fastovsky, D.P. Murray, and J.J. Smay (2008) Teaching and Learning Cladistics., GSA Abstract 311-9.

J.J. Smay and K.M. Kortz (2008) Methods Used to Improve the Scaffolding and Clarity of Introductory Geoscience Lecture Tutorials, GSA Abstract 159-11.

K.M. Kortz, J.J. Smay and D.P. Murray (2007) Using Lecture Tutorials to Increase Student Learning in Introductory Geoscience Courses., Eos Trans. AGU, 88(52), Fall Meet. Suppl., Abstract ED33B-1225.

K.M. Kortz, D.P. Murray, and J.J. Smay (2007) Reducing Student Misconceptions in Introductory Geoscience Courses Using Lecture Tutorials, Geological Society of America, Abstract 213-3.

K.M. Kortz and J.M. Jager (2006) Creating Lecture Tutorials for the Introductory Geoscience Classroom with Data Found on the Digital Library for Earth System Education (DLESE) Website, Eos Trans. AGU, 87(36), Jt. Assem. Suppl., Abstract ED33B-02.

D.P. Murray and K.M. Kortz (2005) An Outcomes- and Assessment-Based Undergraduate Geology Curriculum: A Chronicle of the Journey towards Its Development and Implementation, Geological Society of America, Abstract 50-3.

K.M. Kortz (2005) Using the Planets in Introductory Earth Science Courses and Student Attitudes, Geological Society of America, Abstract 222-5.

J. Sammons, D.P. Murray, A. Peterfreund, and K.M. Kortz (2005) Skydust: Assessing Planet Earth’s Health by Monitoring the Particulates that Settle Upon Her, Geological Society of America, Abstract 124-9.

K.M. Kortz (2004) Community College Student Research in Micro-Gravity., Am. Association of Physics Teachers, Abst.

K.K. Zuromski* and K.M. Jager (2003) Analysis of the Subsurface of Alba Patera, Mars Using Pit Craters, Lunar and Planetary Science Conference XXXIV Abst. #1064.

K.E. Venturini*, K.M. Jager and K.J. Savasta (2003) Preliminary Analysis of Pit Craters on Alba Patera, Mars, Using MOC Data, Lunar and Planetary Science Conference XXXIV Abst. #1063.

K.M. Jager and E.B. Grosfils (2000) Emplacement of Long Lava Flows Within a Graben Network in the Carson Quadrangle, Venus, Lunar and Planetary Science Conference XXXI, Abst. #1766.

K.M. Jager, J.W. Head III, P. McGovern, S. Solomon, and B. Thomson (1999) Alba Patera, Mars: Characteristics using Mars Orbiter Laser Altimeter (MOLA) Data and Comparison with other volcanic edifices, Lunar and Planetary Science Conference XXX, Abst. #1915.

J.W. Head, K.M. Jager, S. Pratt (1999) Mars Volcanic Edifice Characterization Using Mars Orbiter Laser Altimeter (MOLA) Data. AGU abstract, Spring Meeting.

K.M. Jager, J.W. Head, S. Pratt, J. Garvin, P. McGovern (1998) Mars Volcanic Edifices: Characterization and Comparison Using Mars Orbiter Laser Altimeter (MOLA) Data., AGU abstract, Fall Meeting.

C.C. Allen, R.V. Morris, K.M. Jager, D.C. Golden, D.J. Lindstrom, M.M. Lindstrom, J.P. Lockwood (1998) Martian regolith simulant JSC Mars-1., Lunar and Planetary Science Conference XXIX, Abst. #1690.
 

Grants and Proposals

"Glasses for Colorblind Students" K.M. Kortz, R. DiPippo, and L. Messina (Community College of Rhode Island Foundation, $2,290, January 2024-July 2024).

"Developing a Gamified, Data-rich, Solar System Astronomy Online Class and Laboratory." K.M. Kortz and R. Hart (Rhode Island Space Grant Consortium, $15,240, July 2022-June 2023).

"Magnetic Survey of Ultramafic Terrestrial Analog Sites." co-PI with PI R. Hart (Rhode Island Space Grant Consortium, $49,044, July 2023-June 2024). (Pending)

"Supporting the success of all students: Aligning online and in-person geology classes using a gamified teaching approach and developing assignments specifically targeting diversity, equity, and inclusion" K.M. Kortz (Center for Teaching Excellence at CCRI, $5,000, January 2022-January 2023).

"GP-EXTRA: Field-rich Internships as Recruitment Strategy at 2YC-4YC Transition in Rhode Island" co-PI with D. Cardace, B. Dewsbury, B. Savage (NSF-DUE-IUSE #1911573, $493,708, Jul 2019-Jun 2021). (Declined)

"CLASS 2.0: Increasing student learning in introductory geoscience courses using a digital assessment tool" Senior Personel, with D. McConnell, R. Walker, R. Teasdale, D. Mrofka, K. Ryker, D. Czajka, and J. Jones (NSF-DUE-IUSE, $600,000, 2020-2023). (Declined)

"Effective Teaching Strategies Workshops and Sessions for the 2019 Earth Educators' Rendezvous" senior personel with PIs K. Ryker and R. Archer and other senior personel J. Jones, D. McConnell, and R. Teasdale (NSF-DUE-IUSE #1912471, $47,782, July 2019-Aug 2019).

"GEOPATHS-Impact: Improving Geoscience Education Pathways through Engaging Scientific and Career Experiences" co-PI with B. Savage, D. Cardace, D. Reiger (NSF-DUE-IUSE #1540719, $311,994, Jan 2016-Dec 2019).

"Bringing Experiential Learning About Serpentinization in A Mars-analog Setting To 4 CCRI Interns"  PI with D. Cardace (Rhode Island Space Grant Consortium, $6,981, Apr 2017-Apr 2018).

"Collaborative Research: Creating Embedded Assessment Tools to Evaluate Geoscience Undergraduate Education" PI with K. Viskipic and K. van der hoeven Kraft (NSF-EHR-IUSE #1524366, $120,043 (total budget $1,248,692), Nov 2015-Oct 2020). (Declined)

"Research-Informed Curricula: Creating and Evaluating a Cutting-Edge, Research-Based Physical Geology Textbook" PI with J.J. Smay (NSF-TUES #1244881, $136,466, Sept 2013-Nov 2016).

“Investigation of alternative conceptions about Plate Tectonics across the expert-novice continuum: When a well known theory isn’t so well known.” Co-PI with S. Clark, J.J. Smay, and J. Libarkin (NSF DUE-CCLI #0837185, $199,593, Jan 2009-Dec 2011).

 “Collaborative Research: Evaluating student learning in geoscience curricula that employ Conceptests using electronic student response systems.” PI, collaborating with five other collaborators (NSF DUE-CCLI #0716392, $38,788, Aug 2007-July 2012).

“RITES: Rhode Island Technology Enhanced Science Program” Senior Personnel with D.P. Murray and G. deOliveira (NSF DUE #796475382, $12,500,000, Oct 2008-Sept 2013).

 “Using DLESE to Create and Assess Active Learning Materials in the Geosciences.” Co-PI with J. Jager (DLESE Evaluation Services Minigrant, $5,978, Jan 2006-July 2006).

 “Pathways to Careers in Science: Academic Roadmaps.” Senior Personnel with D. Grossman-Garber and four co-PIs (NSF-CCLI #0442888, $99,997, Jan 2005-Dec 2006).

“Interactive Exercises for Introductory Geoscience Lectures as a Way to Reduce Alternate Conceptions.” PI with J. Jager (NSF-GEO ED #0607945, $77,977, July 2006-June 2008). (Declined)

 “Collaborative Research: Validation and Reliability of Formative Geoscience Conceptest Questions.” PI, collaborating with five other collaborators (NSF DUE-CCLI #0618300, $27,410, Aug 2006-July 2010). (Declined)

 “Validation and Reliability of Formative Geoscience Conceptest Questions.” Co-PI with David Steer and seven other co-PIs (NSF DUE-CCLI #0512631, $407,733, July 2005-June 2008). (Declined)
 

Workshops Led

• Faculty Learning Community (FLC): The Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL). K.M. Kortz. CCRI (2023)
• CTE Grants to Support Teaching Excellent, SoTL, and the IRB workshop series. K.M. Kortz. CCRI (2023, 2024)
• Short Course: Increasing the data, math, and societal relevance in introductory Earth science courses. B. Pratt-Situala, B. Walker, R. Teasdale, and K.M. Kortz. California and Remote (2022)
• Faculty Learning Community (FLC): Inclusive STEM Teaching Project. R.A. Rogers and K.M. Kortz. CCRI (2022)
• Learner-Centered Teaching: Gamified Teaching. K.M. Kortz with R.A. Rogers and R. Hart. CTE Learner-Centered Course Design Idea Exchange. CCRI (2021)
• EPTO Effective Practices in Teaching Online. M. McIntyre, K.M. Kortz, A. Petrus, A. Snowe, K. Swithers, S. Warila. CCRI (2021)
• EPTO Faculty Winter Workshop. M. McIntyre, K.M. Kortz, A. Petrus, A. Snowe, K. Swithers. CCRI (2021)
• Measuring the Earth with GPS: Plate Motion and Changing Ice-Water. K.M. Kortz and B. Pratt-Situala. GETSI mini-workshop (2021)
• Designing Effective Lessons for your First Geoscience Course. K.M. Kortz, B. Hanger, and R.
Archer. Three-day faculty workshop at the Earth Educators' Rendezvous in Tennessee (2019)
• How to Mentor Honors Students. L. Andreozzi Fontaine and K.M. Kortz. CITLA Spring
Symposium (2019)
• Mentoring Honors Students. L. Andreozzi Fontaine and K.M. Kortz. CITLA Brown Bag (2017)
• Envisioning the Future of Undergraduate STEM Education: Research and Practice. Co-leader Dissemination Working Group (2016)
• Looking for a high impact practice? Try undergraduate research for all your students. M. Coclin, K.M. Kortz, R. Traficante. Professional Development Day, CCRI (2016)
• Visibility, Growth, and Quality Control: The Birth and Development Community College Honors Programs in Three Stages. J. Trucker, K.M. Kortz, L. Andreozzi Fontaine. Session at the National Collegiate Honors Council meeting (2016)
• Honors by Contract: the Good, the Bad, and the Measureable. P.H. Jones, L. Andreozzi Fontaine, K.M. Kortz, S. Jones, Session at the National Collegiate Honors Council meeting (2015)
• Interactive strategies for the classroom: A how-to guide using examples about igneous rocks. Half-day Faculty Short Course at the Geologic Society of America meeting, cosponsored by the National Association of Geoscience Teachers-Two Year College Division (2015)
• On the Cutting Edge Early Career Geoscience Faculty Workshop. Five-day workshop in Virginia (2015)
• IUSE Proposal Writing Workshop. Four-day workshop in Florida (2015)
• Interactive strategies for the classroom: A how-to guide using examples about igneous rocks. Half-day Faculty Short Course at the Geologic Society of America meeting, cosponsored by NAGT-Geo2YC and National Association of Geoscience Teachers (2015)
• How to Work Towards Effective Articulation between 2-Year and 4-Year College Geoscience Programs. K.M. Kortz, D. Cardace, W. Harrison. Webinar, part of the AGU/AGI Heads and Chairs Webinar Series (2014)
• On the Cutting Edge Early Career Geoscience Faculty Workshop. Five-day workshop in Maryland (2014)
• On the Cutting Edge Early Career Geoscience Faculty Workshop. Five-day workshop in Washington DC (2013)
• Energizing your class with ConcepTests: A simple technique to engage students and improve learning. D. Steer, J. Knott, K.M. Kortz. Webinar, part of the Effective Strategies for Undergraduate Geoscience Teaching Virtual Event Series (2013)
• Active Lectures in Classrooms of All Sizes. M. Leckie, J.J. Smay, K.M. Kortz. Half-day Faculty Short Course at the Geologic Society of America meeting, cosponsored by the Geoscience Education Division and National Association of Geoscience Teachers (2012)
• Engaging ALL Students: Effective Strategies for Teaching Diverse College Students. T. Slater, K.M. Kortz, S. Slater, J.J. Smay. Full day Faculty Short Course at the Geologic Society of America meeting, cosponsored by the Geoscience Education Division and National Association of Geoscience Teachers (2012)
• Sleuthing Through the Rock Cycle. K.M. Kortz and K. Saul. One two-and-a-half-day workshops for in-service middle and high school teachers in Rhode Island in conjunction with the Rhode Island Technology Enhanced Science (RITES) program (2012)
• On the Cutting Edge Early Career Geoscience Faculty Workshop. Five-day workshop at the College of William and Mary (2012)
• Misconceptions in Introductory Geology Courses and Ways to Reduce Them with Active Learning Techniques. K.M. Kortz. Half-day Faculty Short Course at the North East Geological Society of America meeting, cosponsored by the National Association of Geoscience Teachers (2012)
• Field Trip: In the Footsteps of Dinosaurs: A Guided Tour of Dinosaur State Park for K–16 Educators. C. Witkowski, M. Enkler, and K.M. Kortz, Half-day field trip at the North East Geological Society of America meeting (2012)
• Thinking Like a Scientist: Groundwater Consulting. K.M. Kortz. Short workshop during the Fall Conference for in-service middle and high school teachers in Rhode Island in conjunction with the Rhode Island Technology Enhanced Science (RITES) program (2011)
• Common Misconceptions About Plate Tectonics, Earth's Interior, and the Rock Cycle, and Active Learning Approaches to Correct Them. S.K. Clark, K.M. Kortz, J.J. Smay. Half-day Faculty Short Course at the Geologic Society of America meeting, cosponsored by the Geoscience Education Division and National Association of Geoscience Teachers (2011)
• Thinking Like a Scientist. A. O'Donnell, J. Caulkins, K.M. Kortz, B.E. Kortz, and D. Cardace. Two-and-a-half-day workshop for in-service middle and high school teachers in Rhode Island in conjunction with the Rhode Island Technology Enhanced Science (RITES) program (2011)
• Sleuthing Through the Rock Cycle. K.M. Kortz and K. Saul. Two two-and-a-half-day workshops for in-service middle and high school teachers in Rhode Island in conjunction with the Rhode Island Technology Enhanced Science (RITES) program (2011)
• On the Cutting Edge Early Career Geoscience Faculty Workshop. Five-day workshop at the College of William and Mary (2011)
• Improving Student Learning with Clickers. K.M. Kortz. Short workshop presented at the Community College of Rhode Island Professional Development Day (2011)
• Writing Effective Clicker Questions. K.M. Kortz. Short workshop presented at the Community College of Rhode Island Professional Development Day (2011)
• Lecture Tutorial Interactive Teaching in Geology. K.M. Kortz and J.J. Smay. Two half-day workshops targeting geology instructors, supported by W.H. Freeman and sponsored by the New England National Association of Geoscience Teachers (2011)
• Clicker Pilot Study Orientation Workshop. K.M. Kortz and J. Mullaney. Half-day workshop for Community College of Rhode Island faculty members (2011)
• An Introduction to Using Active Learning to Reduce Student Misconceptions about Plate Tectonics. K.M. Kortz and J.J. Smay. Half-day Faculty Short Course at the Geologic Society of America meeting, cosponsored by the Geoscience Education Division and National Association of Geoscience Teachers (2010)
• Sleuthing Through the Rock Cycle. K.M. Kortz and K. Saul. Two two-and-a-half-day workshops for in-service middle and high school teachers in Rhode Island in conjunction with the Rhode Island Technology Enhanced Science (RITES) program (2010)
• Using Clickers in the Classroom. K.M. Kortz. Short workshop presented at the Community College of Rhode Island Professional Development Day (2010)
• Webinar: Lecture Tutorials Web Demonstration. K.M. Kortz and J.J. Smay. Short workshop presented online on three different occasions (2010)
• Reducing Student Misconceptions about Plate Tectonics using Interactive Methods. K.M. Kortz and J.J. Smay. Half-day Faculty Short Course at the Geologic Society of America meeting, cosponsored by the Geoscience Education Division (2009)
• Using Clickers in the Classroom. K.M. Kortz. Short workshop presented at the Community College of Rhode Island Professional Development Day (2009)
• Teaching Introductory Geoscience Using Lecture Tutorials. K.M. Kortz and J.J. Smay. Half-day Faculty Short Course at the Geologic Society of America meeting, cosponsored by the Geoscience Education Division (2008)
• Reducing Misconceptions in Introductory Geology by Using Lecture Tutorials. K.M. Kortz, D.P. Murray, and J.J. Smay. 75-minute workshop presented at the North East section of the National Association of Geoscience Teachers (2007)
 

Selected Workshops Attended

• Transparency in Course Design for Student Success, virtual (2023)
• Inspiring Innovation: Two-Year College Faculty as Agents of Change, virtual (2023)
• Gamified Teaching Faculty Learning Community, Rhode Island (2022)
• Cognitive Neuroscience Faculty Learning Community, Rhode Island (2021)
• Inclusive STEM Teaching Project, 6-week MOOC (2021)
• Effective Practices in Teaching Online (EPTO), Rhode Island (2021)
• NASA STEM: Better Together for Stakeholder Success, virtual (2021)
• Teaching Online at the Earth Educators Rendezvous, Kansas (2018)
• Helping Students Thrive in Geoscience at Two-Year Colleges: Selected Strategies, Washington (2017)
• Geoscience Education Research Community Planning Workshop at the Earth Educators Rendezvous, Wisconsin (2016)
• Action Research in the Classroom, Rhode Island (2015)
• Teaching Undergraduate Research in the First Two Years, Montana (2014)
• Motivating Students, Rhode Island (2014)
• Teaching Quantitative Literacy across the Curriculum, Rhode Island (2014)
• Summit on the Future of Geoscience Undergraduate Education, Texas (2014)
• SAGE 2YC: Supporting Student Success in Geoscience at Two-year Colleges, Virginia (2013)
• Resources to Transform Undergraduate GEOscience EDucation (RTUGeoEd), Florida (2013)
• Moving Beyond Content: Engaging, Motivating and Attending to Student Attitudes in General Education Courses, Rhode Island (2012)
• Teaching with animations in the geosciences: A cognitive psychology perspective, Massachusetts (2011)
• How People Learn, Rhode Island (2011)
• Misconceptions About Climate Change: On the Cutting Edge Climate and Energy Webinar (2011)
• Using on-line volcano monitoring data in college and university courses: The Volcano Exploration Project: Pu`u `O`o (VEPP), Hawaii (2010)
• The Role of Two-year Colleges in Geoscience Education and Broadening Participation in the Geosciences, Virginia (2010)
• Writing and Evaluating Geoscience Concept Inventory Questions, Texas (2008)
• DLESE Data Services Workshop, Arizona (2006)
• Designing Effective Geoscience Education Research: Qualitative and Quantitative Methods, Utah (2005)
• Digital Library of Earth Science Education (DLESE) Annual Meeting, Florida (2005)
• Assessment for Learning Workshop with Dr. Peggy Maki, Rhode Island (2005)
• On the Cutting Edge: Designing Effective and Innovative Courses in the Geosciences, Michigan (2004)
• Using Conceptests to Improve Teaching and Learning in Large Classes, Colorado (2004)
• Cosmos in the Classroom, A Hands-on Symposium on Teaching Introductory Astronomy, Massachusetts (2004)
• 13th Annual Northeast Regional Teaching Workshop, Outcomes Assessment, Rhode Island (2004)
• Inquiry-Based Digital Laboratory Materials for Introductory Geology Courses, Colorado (2004)
• Improving the Intro Astronomy Survey Course, Florida (2004)
• On the Cutting Edge: Early Career Faculty in the Geosciences, NAGT, Virginia (2003)
• Starting Student Space Hardware Program: A How-To Workshop, Boulder, Colorado (2003)
• Changing the Culture: Information and Experiences for the Disability Resource Mentor, Rhode Island (2003)
• Dinosaurs, The Science Behind the Stories, Washington (2003)
• Earthquakes for College Faculty, Washington (2003)
 

Other Activities

• Curriculum and Instruction (C&I) Editor for the Journal of Geoscience Education (JGE) (2017 to present)
• CTE Faculty Fellow for SoTL at CCRI (2023 to present)
• External evaluator for NSF Grant "Collaborative Research: CLASS 2.0: Applying a digital tool to support self-regulated learning strategies in introductory geoscience courses" to PI David McConnell and Co-PIs John Nietfeld, Jason Jones, Rachel Teasdale, Rebecca Walker, and David Mrofka. (2023-2024)
• External evaluator for NSF Grant "CyberTraining: Pilot: Machine Learning Foundations and Applications in the Earth Systems Sciences" to PIs Nicole Corbin and Thomas Martin. (2023-2025)
• Coordinator, Past-coordinator of the Teaching and Learning Collaborative (TLC) at the Community College of Rhode Island (2019 to 2021)
• Co-director of the Honors Program at the Community College of Rhode Island (2003 to present)
• Member of the Advisory Board for the Center for Teaching Excellence (CTE) (2021 to present)
• Member of the Institutional Review Board (IRB) (2020 to present)
• Member of the Two-Year College Committee of NCHC (2019 to present)
• Advised the honors projects and independent studies of over twenty-five students (2003 to present)
• AHAC Ad Hoc Assessment Committee for COVID online teaching at CCRI (2020-2021)
• Panel member of the Geoscience Education Research panel on Promotion and Tenure (2022)
• Panel member on the Career Panels during the 2020 GSA Connects Online meeting (2020)
• Keynote speaker at the NAGT Eastern Section 2019 Conference, "Student Misconceptions in the Geological Sciences" (2019)
• Served on a National Science Foundation (NSF) grant review panel (2017, 2019)
• Member of the Advisory Board to the Center for Innovative Teaching, Learning, and Assessment (CITLA) (2009 to 2019)
• Local host with Lynne Andreozzi-Fontaine as directors of the CCRI Honors Program for the Northeast Regional Honors Council conference in Providence, RI (2018)
• Panelist on the webinar: Careers in Academia: Options with your GER Background (2018)
• Member of the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning Faculty Learning Community at CCRI (2016 to 2018)
• CCRI faculty mentor (2017-2018)
• Associate Editor for the Journal of Geoscience Education (JGE) (2014 to 2017)
• Team member of the Cutting Edge Embedded Assessment Project (2011 to 2015)
• Leader of the Undergraduate Research Faculty Learning Community at CCRI (2015 to 2016)
• Member of the Numeracy and Literacy Faculty Learning Community at CCRI (2014 to 2015)
• Past President, President, President, Vice President 1, Vice President 2, and Councilor of the New England section of the National Association of Geoscience Teachers (NAGT) (2007 to 2014)
• Participant in the Geoscience Affective Research Network (GARNET) Project (2011 to 2013)
• Councilor to the National Association of Geoscience Teachers (NAGT) (2010 to 2013)
• Member of the Science Education Roundtable Steering Committee (2013)
• Co-coordinator of the Clicker Pilot Study for CCRI faculty (2010 to 2012)
• Member of the CCRI Liberal Arts Task Force (2011)
• Coordinator for the Physics Department assessment strategies (2005 to present)
• Lead 8 sessions called "Reading Rocks Like a Rock Detective" for ages 5-7 and 8-12 at the YMCA in Lincoln, RI during the Nature Program at summer day camp (2012)
• Proposed and co-chaired with A. Hadley the session at the North East Geological Society of America meeting titled "Session 17: Inquiry-Based Activities: Examples and Effectiveness" (2012)
• Nominated (successfully!) K. Saul from Ferri Middle School, Johnston RI for the 2011 Outstanding Earth Science Teacher (OEST) Award from the New England section of the National Association of Geoscience Teachers (2011)
• Proposed and co-chaired the session at the Geological Society of America annual meeting titled “T40: Clickers in the Classroom: Fun and Games, Learning Tool, or Both?” (2010)
• Lead multiple presentations at various schools, grades preK-1 (2013 to 2014)
• Presented at the Glebe Street Elementary School Career Day, multiple interactive presentations for grades 1 through 5 (2010)
• Presenter at multiple professional development workshops and other learning experiences for Rhode Island teachers associated with the Rhode Island Technology Enhanced Science Program (RITES) (2010 to 2013)
• Mentor in the Community College of Rhode Island Minority Mentoring Program (2004 to 2014) and Community College of Rhode Island Disability Resource Mentor (2003 to 2013)
• Advised two groups of students to propose, design, build, and test an experiment flown on the KC-135 in conjunction with the Reduced Gravity Student Flight Opportunity Program by NASA (“The Effects of Weightlessness on Copepods and Crayfish” 2002-2003 and “The Effects of Weightlessness on Communication of Apis mellifera” 2004-2005)
• Member of the Learning Evidence Team (2005 to 2010)
• Member of the Academic Advisory Committee (2004 to 2007)
• Member of the Committee for the Study of Innovative Teaching (2006 to 2008)
• Member of the NEASC committee for college accreditation (2002 to 2003)
• Current memberships: National Association for Geoscience Teachers (NAGT) Two-Year College (2YC) Division and Geoscience Education Research (GER) Division; International Association for Geoscience Diversity (IAGD); Geological Society of America (GSA); Past memberships: Association of Women Geoscientists (AWG); National Collegiate Honors Council (NHCH); Northeast Regional Honors Council (NRHC)