Abstract
The 'Where' in Education: Integrating Curriculum through Spatial Thought
Track: Teaching with GIS in Schools
Author
With the 2009 Horizon Report’s emphasis on the emergence of “Geo-everything”, the need to develop learning objects which encourages spatial thought is imperative. Instructors in both higher education and K-12 who are developing lessons, thematic units, and related resources might ask themselves how they can introduce “Where” concepts without being an expert in GIS and mapping technologies.
At the University of Connecticut Libraries Map and Geographic Information Center (MAGIC) we are developing a series of learning objects which explore varied topics that incorporate a “Where” perspective via online maps, mash-ups, and interactive spatial activities which can be easily integrated into the curriculum. Through the development of a vast array of sample lesson plans/activities which integrate GIS data and maps, MAGIC is developing resources which encourage educators to integrate spatial thinking skills in an interdisciplinary manner enabling “geo-everything” thought.
Jeffrey Dunn
Department of Geography - University of Connecticut
422 CLAS Building
215 Glenbrook Road, U-4148
Storrs, Connecticut 06269-4148
United States
Phone: 570-872-4814
E-mail: jeffreyj.dunn@gmail.com
Michael Howser
University of Connecticut
369 Fairfield Way
Storrs, Connecticut 06269
United States
Phone: (860) 486-4589
E-mail: michael.howser@uconn.edu