Obinna Urom
Short Bio
Obinna Urom is a doctoral student in Earth System Science with a specialization in Geoscience Education. His research focuses on how teachers develop and apply the knowledge and skills needed to teach Earth and environmental science effectively. Drawing on the Pedagogical Content Knowledge (PCK) framework, he examines how educators make complex scientific ideas understandable and relevant to students. His interests include Earth system science education, teacher preparation, conceptual understanding, systems thinking, and teaching confidence. Through his work, he seeks to contribute to the preparation of educators who can help students develop scientific literacy and a deeper understanding of environmental issues.
Education
PhD, Earth System Science Auburn University Ongoing
MS, Geology University of Toledo, Ohio 2024
BS, Geophysics Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Nigeria 2019
Professional Experience
- Graduate Teaching Assistant, Department of Geosciences, Auburn University, August 2024âPresent
- Graduate Research Assistant, Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Toledo, Ohio, May 2022âJuly 2024
- Graduate Assistant, Department of Geology, Federal University of Technology Owerri, Nigeria, October 2019âApril 2022
- Mathematics and Geography Teacher, Trinity College Cotonou, Republic of Benin, November 2018âOctober 2019
Innovation
Obinna Urom’s research focuses on Earth system science education, with an emphasis on how pre-service teachers develop conceptual understanding, teaching confidence, and instructional approaches for complex Earth and environmental processes. Using mixed-methods research, he examines teachers’ conceptions and misconceptions of topics such as the hydrologic cycle, rock cycle, carbon cycle, greenhouse effect, and Earth system feedback, as well as the factors that influence their confidence in teaching these concepts effectively. His work spans both Nigerian and U.S. educational contexts and seeks to identify the pedagogical supports, resources, and training experiences that best prepare future science teachers. He is also developing classroom interventions that use systems thinking to improve student understanding of human–environment interactions, particularly the effects of urbanization on stream systems and geomorphic processes.
Engagement
- Event Coordinator, 2026 Alabama State Science Olympiad, Auburn, Alabama.
- Reviewer for Springer Nature journals, including Discover Geoscience, Water Conservation Science and Engineering, and Scientific Reports (8 manuscripts reviewed).
- Participated in the Geosciences Departmentâs Gear Up Geo Explorer Summer Camp, Auburn University, June 11, 2026.
- Participated in the PEER (Professional Development for Emerging Education Researchers) Workshop, July 15â18, 2026.
- Participated in the Course Redesign Workshop facilitated by the Auburn University Biggio Center, 2025.
SELECTED PUBLICATIONS
- Urom, O.; Aizebeokhai, A.P.; Doro, K.O. (2026). High-resolution non-invasive mapping of vertical heterogeneity in sandy soils of the Oak Openings Region, Ohio, USA, using electromagnetic induction and ground penetrating radar methods. Acta Geophysica. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11600-026-01950-0
- Opara, A.I.; Ireaja, A.N.; Eyankware, M.O.; Urom, O.O.; Ikoro, D.O.; Akakuru, O.C.; Dioha, E.; Omoko, N.E. (2023). A critical analysis of the comparative techniques of aquifer protective capacity studies in part of Southeastern Nigeria.
- Urom, O.O.; Opara, A.I.; Usen, O.S.; Akiang, F.B.; Isreal, H.O.; Ibezim, J.O.; Akakuru, O.C. (2021). Electro-geohydraulic estimation of shallow aquifers of Owerri and environs, Southeastern Nigeria using multiple empirical resistivity equations.
- Oli, I.C.; Ahairakwem, C.A.; Opara, A.I.; Ekwe, A.C.; Osi-Okeke, I.; Urom, O.O.; Udeh, H.M.; Ezennubia, V.C. (2020). Hydrogeophysical assessment and protective capacity of groundwater resources in parts of Ezza and Ikwo areas, southeastern Nigeria.
