Ralph Dawes started teaching at Wenatchee Valley College in the winter of 1999. His interests include geology, chemistry and physics, and in how the physical sciences can be learned by novices through group activities and interactive techniques. Field trips in earth science classes, in which the student learns to interpret the materials and structures of the earth for him or herself, is one of his favorite activities. He also has an interest in making use of technology to create new, high-quality educational opportunities for students, and does some of his teaching online.
Ralph is originally from Edmonds, Washington. He has a degree in literature from Antioch College in Yellow Springs, Ohio, and degrees in geology/geochemistry from Western Washington University (BS) and the University of Washington (MS, PhD). His dissertation topic was "Geochemistry and Petrogenesis of Deep-Seated, Late Cretaceous Plutons of the North Cascades." He enjoys hiking, camping, reading and free-time geologizing.
1300 Fifth Street, Wenatchee, WA 98801 Phone: (509) 682-6800
