Abstract

GIS - 3D Printing – Virtual Reality: Integrative Approach to Teaching Topography
Track: Teaching and Research
Authors: Helenmary Hotz

Teaching topography can be daunting. Students have varying degrees of ability to conceptualize 3D objects from 2D renderings. MakerSpace enabled integration of GIS, 3D printing, and Virtual Reality to address this. 3D prints and a virtual tour of the topographic feature facilitated an understanding of the relationship between 2D layers, such as contours and DEM’s drawn in ArcMap, to the actual feature. This was an engaging and collaborative approach, which improved the students’ experience.