Abstract

Geospatial Education for Returning Service Members.
Track: Teaching with GIS in Higher Education
Authors: Mark Leipnik, Falguni Mukherjee

Returning armed service members offer a unique set of knowledge, skills, abilities enhanced by a properly designed curriculum. Many recently discharged service people have been exposed to geospatial technologies and may pursue related degrees and careers. However, ex-service member's focused knowledge base requires enhancement with an educational foundation in principles and additional training in applications. This is true even for those who seek careers involving national security and law enforcement despite their special qualifications. Conversely, returning service members have a range of personal challenges and unique perspectives that require adjustments both to the content of course materials and in ancillary support and counseling services. The presentation will discuss these issues, specific cases of many returning veterans who have pursued studies and careers in GIS and provide information on resources available to other educators and the ESRI user community helpful in the support of this special and growing group.