Heather Petcovic

Dr. Heather Petcovic is Chair and Professor in the Department of Geological and Environmental Sciences at Western Michigan University, with a joint appointment in the Mallinson Institute for Science Education. Her research bridges geoscience and education, focusing on field-based learning, cognitive development, and K-12 teacher training.

• Ph.D., Oregon State University (2004)
• M.S., Oregon State University (2000)
• B.A., Smith College (1995)

Her research explores how field experiences shape geoscientists' cognition, integrating mixed methods to study spatial reasoning, mental models, and instructional design. She leads NSF-funded initiatives to democratize geoscience education at two-year and minority-serving institutions.

Recent publications highlight her expertise in spatial thinking, virtual field experiences, and hydrogeology pedagogy. Awards include the National Association of Geoscience Teachers' Distinguished Lecturer. She mentors graduate students and contributes to geoscience education policy through roles like former associate editor for the Journal of Geoscience Education.