Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology An introduction to processes involved in the formation of igneous and metamorphic rocks. The first half of the course includes inquiry into the classification, plate tectonic setting, and evolution of volcanic and plutonic igneous rocks. The second half includes study of progressive metamorphism, the pressure-temperature- time history of metamorphic rocks, and the relation between metamorphism and plate tectonics. Labs will include thin section studies of igneous and metamorphic rocks, as well as field trips in Vermont and the Adirondacks.

Natural Hazards Despite increasing technological sophistication, modern civilization remains vulnerable to natural hazards such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, tsunamis, flooding, landslides, extraterrestrial impacts, and other events. In this course we will consider the geologic mechanisms behind these hazards, the societal implications of these hazards, and approaches to reducing risk. Case studies will be combined with exploration of fundamental geologic concepts to provide students a foundation for understanding risk exposure and evaluating approaches to hazard management.

Data in Earth Science In this course students will learn the fundamental tenets and tools of data science to interpret, evaluate, and anticipate geologic events that operate on planetary surfaces. A modular course structure will allow students to collect, interrogate, and visualize earth science data with a variety of computational tools, such as Excel, Geographic Information Systems, and R Studio. Regular assignments will provide opportunities for students to compare data with conceptual or theoretical models of geologic processes, and a final project will ask students to apply the computational skills learned in class to scientific inquiry in Earth science. Students will also learn to recognize the difference between researcher- vs.- computationally-led science, and that powerful tools can facilitate good science, but they cannot replace critical thinking. This course will use R programming. No prior GIS or R experience is necessary.

Geology of Rocky Planets In this course, we will explore four rocky planets of the inner solar system (Mercury, Venus, the Moon, and Mars) and the fundamental geologic processes acting on their surfaces (volcanism, tectonism, impact cratering, and erosion/degradation). We will study how these processes have interacted to form the surfaces we see today and what those processes mean for the interior evolution of rocky bodies. Furthermore, we will use the 2023-2032 Decadal Survey as a guiding document to identify existing knowledge gaps and explore priority targets for future space missions. Naturally, the processes and landforms we investigate will link back to first principles and fundamental concepts developed on Earth Given the condensed time frame of the January term, we will have smaller daily assignments (e.g., reading annotations), GIS activities using planetary data, and weekly assessments. A final project will invite students to select the mission that is most appealing to their group, with emphasis on the instrumentation necessary to address their knowledge gaps of interest. Students will apply the fundamental principles of earth and climate science learned in other courses, including but not limited to developing skills to critically analyze scientific data and literature, data analysis via geographic information systems, and effectively communicate their findings.

Space for Society - A Small Step or a Giant Leap? Humanity is on the brink of yet another space race between the US, China, and other nations and private entities, which could have profound sociopolitical, economic, and ethical ramifications. We are also in a second golden age of planetary exploration with active missions spanning the solar system. In this seminar we will examine society's relationship with outer space, the science and motivations of space exploration, and what we have learned from the cosmos. Through nonfiction and science-fiction literature, we will explore the cultural and economic significance of space and discuss the ethics of expanding humanity beyond Earth's cradle. Readings include Cosmos by Carl Sagan, The Lathe of Heaven by Ursula K. Leguin, and several more new and foundational pieces related to space exploration.

Collaborative Capstone Research Seminar This course features group research on community-connected projects that capitalize on student skills and knowledge developed through previous coursework and related experiences to meet objectives that are important to the community partners. Projects are guided by a faculty member with a high level of independent group work by the students. The course contains elements of readings and discussion, analysis and interpretation, collaboration with project partners, and development of written group thesis projects, culminating with a public presentation and dissemination of the written document.

Physical Volcanology In this course, we will detail one of the fundamental geologic processes acting across the Solar System – volcanism.  We will study the fundamental principles that underlie volcanism, the different expressions observed at the surface, and predict what types of volcanism are expected under various conditions.  We will integrate insights from observations, theory, and modelling to form a cohesive understanding of volcanic principles.  This will entail why and how volcanism occurs, the formation of igneous rock, and the incorporation of volcanic deposits into the rock record.  Likewise, we will use our terrestrial understanding as a jump off point to explore volcanic processes on other planets.  A final project will invite students to apply the fundamental principles of volcanology learned during the semester to critically examine an active area of volcanology, develop the skills to critically analyze scientific data and literature, and effectively communicate their findings.

Sean Peters

Reviews and ratings for Sean Peters at Middlebury College.Sean Peters teaches Introduction to Petrology, Natural Hazards, Data in Earth Science and more.  Explore top rated instructors and find the best for you.Is Sean Peters good ? Find out on MiddCourses.

This is a very foundational geology course that covers a ton of important earth systems processes and explains the backbone of hard rock geology. There were some growing pains from this being the first time the course has been offered, but overall the course material is highly valuable for someone interested in pursuing geology. 

Dr. Peters is enthusiastic and genuinely funny which kept class engaging. We did several projects which were broad with lots of freedom. Dr. Peters has high expectations of students' ability to pick up on new concepts fast and apply them. I thought the concepts and analysis techniques taught were very high value for use in science generally. No midterm, but there's an open-ended final project.

Professor Peters was really fun and chill in class. The homework has specific guidelines and grading was kind of strict. There were also group discussions of Earth Science graphs. The course is really helpful to introduce students into the world of GIS.