Earth Science, Art and Coastal Engineering at the Seaside: Envisioning an Open Exploratorium or Geo-Promenade at Weston-super-Mare, Somerset, United Kingdom

Abstract

Abstract The paper outlines how an outdoor ‘exploratorium’ can be curated to place field observations, together with some knowledge of the local environment, in a manner that relates to geology, geomorphology and artistic aesthetics. The exploratorium can also be used to help explain what is seen, touched or felt as part of ‘sensory geology’. The locations used are on an accessible walk, a geo-promenade, along the sea front of a coastal town, Weston-super-Mare, England. Sites, such as a sea wall and recent engineering structures, are linked to flood prevention measures and sculpture and stone promenade furniture relate to various aspects of geoheritage. Notions of consilience and decision-making in the behavioural environment are introduced, together with ways in which perceptions of the landscape can be shared with visually impaired visitors. Notes are provided to illustrate the additional information (metadata) that might be supplied in constructing a geo-promenade. The use of mobile technologies for recording observations, providing locations (using decimal Latitude Longitude designations) and general information is also discussed with respect to accessible visits. Attention is also given to cognition and educational models of experiential discussion and knowledge sharing that can be used in exploratoria and geoheritage in general.