How are geographic technologies used in Education?

[Lori Holcomb]

In 2004, according to the US Geological Survey website, the U.S. Secretary of Labor named geotechnologies as one of the three fields most in demand for 21st Century decision-making.

After you read the article, Using GIS and GPS Technology as an Instructional Tool, you will see that GIS, or Geographic Information Systems, are often used in conjunction with GPS as educational tools. GPS and GIS are two different technologies that are frequently confused by the general public. GPS is the aerospace technology that uses satellites and ground equipment to determine position anywhere on Earth. GIS is a computer system that permits you to analyze and manipulate different types of geographical data by “layering” them on the same spatial coordinates. GIS and GPS can be used effectively together when coordinates from GPS receivers are uploaded into a GIS. However, each can be used very effectively by themselves, as you will see from some more of our listed resources.

Discussion question: How does the use of GPS/GIS contribute to the development of higher-order thinking skills?

[Billy Baker]

2. How are geographic technologies used in Education? Discussion question: How does the use of GPS/GIS contribute to the development of higher-order thinking skills?

Most counties have GIS websites that are relatively easy to navigate and most students know about GPS technology. I have used both of these and have found the technology to be very interesting. The reason I think these technologies improve higher-order thinking and problem solving skills is because these systems do not allow students to simply go to the site, locate an answer, and regurgitate the answer. This technology also shows so much more than a “flat map” with words spelled out. This technology shows many levels and gives students a more realistic and true picture of different areas or regions. When I had a new computer lab installed, my classroom computers came with Google Earth installed. At first I did not allow students to use this software. Now, when students finish assignments, I allow them to navigate the software. It’s amazing the things students locate when using Google Earth. Students are able to visualize and conceptualize various locations they will never be able to see in person.

[Danielle Cusick]

How does the use of GPS/GIS contribute to the development of higher-order thinking skills?
Using GPS/GIS meets the needs of each individual student. It challenges students to think, ask questions and generate their own data using results. As the article states it incorporates all of Gardner's multiple intelligences. I can see the GPS/GIS activities in middle/high school but I an unsure as a k-5 technology teacher how to incorporate it. I myself have a GPS that I use often to locate places and plan routes when traveling but I never thought to use it with my students. GIS is new to me. I found it amazing that you can search anything anywhere and create a map, excel spreadsheet, etc with the data. I plan on researching activities to incorporate GIS and GPS in my lessons. I think it is an excellent way to engage students and integrate math, science, social studies, and geography.

[Mary Shanly]

The use of GPS/GIS allows students to create their own representation of the world by allowing them to use "layers". Layers allows students to add different data to the map for a student to analyze. It also appeals to many students by addressing Gardner's multiple intelligences. When students are interested in a topic, they will be more likely to ask questions. GIS allows them to ask questions and helps them create the answer.