Abstract


Land-Use Planning for Sustainable Development: Problem-Based Science Education in Action
Track: Teaching with GIS in Higher Education
Author(s): James Brey

This paper is an update on a project-based science activity where students learn by using geographical information systems to explore data and then create a scenario for future sustainable land use. This capstone small group project is the culmination of a unique interdisciplinary course in environmental geology and public speaking. Competent use of ArcGIS 9.1 to explore data, answer geographic questions, vision the future, and create presentation-quality maps are technical skills developed for environmental geology. Presentation skills in public speaking, group presentation, and the creation of PowerPoint and presentation map graphics round out the skills on the speaking side. This project culminates with formal group presentations featuring the results of the research and geographic exploration and cartographic skills acquired. We excite students’ creativity with the prospect of visioning a sustainable future. This motivates the acquisition of GIS and public presentation skills needed to succeed.

James Brey
University of Wisconsin-Fox Valley
Geography & Geology
1475 Midway Road
Menasha, WI 54952
US
Phone: 920-832-2600
E-mail: jbrey@uwc.edu