Surakarta, November 29, 2024 – Geography Education students from the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education (FKIP) at Sebelas Maret University (UNS) held a field trip entitled “Geology and Geomorphology Field Trip in Indonesia” which took place on November 28-29, 2024 in Karangsambung, Central Java. This activity aimed to provide practical understanding of geology and geomorphology in Indonesia, as well as to improve students’ analytical skills in field studies.
On the first day, students received a briefing from Dr. Puguh Dwi Raharjo, M.Sc., a geography expert from the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN). In his presentation, Dr. Puguh explained the unique geological and geomorphological processes that occur in the Karangsambung geopark, including the rock formation process and geomorphological dynamics that are highly relevant to the geographical conditions of Indonesia, especially those in Karangsambung. He also inspired the students to explore more about Indonesian geology and geomorphology and the importance of research in this field.
On the second day, the students were divided into groups to conduct field observations at several predetermined locations. These field visits were accompanied by supervising lecturers, namely Dr. Pipit Wijayanti S.Si., M.Sc., Mr. Gentur Adi Tjahjono S.Si., M.Pd., and Ms. Imasti Dhani Pratiwi S.T., M.Eng, and led by researchers from BRIN Karangsambung. They played an active role in guiding students to observe and analyze each location visited.
Some of the locations visited included:
- Mount Parang – Students studied the unique rock formations and volcanic activity occurring in this area.
- Lok-Ulo River – Here, they analyzed the sedimentation process and river morphology as part of their understanding of geomorphology.
- Melange Structures and Sedimentation in Totogan Village – Students conducted research on melange structures and sedimentation dynamics in the area.
- Rocks in Pucangan Village – At this location, they observed the types and characteristics of existing rocks, concerning geological composition and natural resource potential.
- Watu Kelir and Pillow Lava – A visit at the end of the day provided information about lava formations and the cooling process that formed them.
This field trip not only provided an important learning experience, but also strengthened the students’ theoretical knowledge of Indonesian geology and geomorphology. With excellent guidance from lecturers and BRIN, students were able to conduct direct analysis and interact with geological phenomena in the field.
Through this activity, it is hoped that students will become a generation that is better prepared to face the challenges of natural resource management and participate in geographical research and development in Indonesia.