A retired Cumbrian-based academic has received an honorary degree from The Open University for four decades of teaching and learning in the sciences, as well as her work in promoting the local landscape in the Lake District.
Dr Audrey Brown, from Ulverston, (pictured above) was an associate lecturer with the OU, tutoring hundreds of science students in Cumbria. She was given the award for her work in both geoconservation in Cumbria and services to the university.
She was a driving force in the creation of the Regionally Important Geological and Geomorphological Sites (RIGS) group in Cumbria, now known as Cumbria GeoConservation, which documents the scientific and educational importance of many areas in Cumbria.
Helping the public explore the region
It has identified trails, supported by leaflets, to help the public explore the region’s complex geological history and, as a result, many people are now able to have a better understanding of the Lake District landscape.
The database of sites it has documented is available to the local authority meaning the information can be included in local plans to benefit the wider community.
Dr Brown, now President of Cumbria GeoConservation, has travelled widely in South America, Nepal, Antarctica and the Sahara, and frequently gives talks to the public about the science behind those environments.
She is also Vice-President of the Westmorland Geological Society and has introduced a series of informal sessions for members who would like to learn some basic geology, alongside more formal lectures and field trips.
Found a passion for geology
Dr Brown said:
“I was surprised and very proud to be given this award. I am pleased to have been involved in helping so many OU students develop their learning skills and make huge personal progress towards their chosen qualifications.”
She started her own career as a biologist but developed a passion for geology. She said:
“I found it absolutely fascinating. It is one of those sciences you can do by just going out into the countryside and looking at rocks.”
She encouraged others to get involved and said:
“Local societies, including The Open University Geological Society, run field trips and I would recommend anyone interested in geology goes on as many field trips as possible. The students that do the best at geology are the ones that have seen the most rocks.”
