Abstract
How Can GIS Enhance Relational Understanding in Geography Education?
Track: User Presentations - Teaching
Authors: Mary Fargher
This paper addresses a specific aspect of geography in education, the role of GIS in constructing relational geographical knowledge. Geography is a synthesising subject which connects the human and the physical in ways that are crucial in learning about the complex world around us. Through a literature-based conceptual analysis and schools-based empirical enquiry, this paper makes a case for using hybrid GIS to support relational understanding in geography education. Findings support the claim that GIS is a powerful medium for relational spatial analysis in geography. The research also indicates that hybrid GIS can provide a comprehensive platform for teachers and their students to construct wider relational interpretations. The paper concludes with recommendations for using hybrid GIS to develop deeper understanding of key contemporary geographical issues including globalisation, climate change and shifting socio-economic disparity.