Do Geographical Information Systems (GIS) Add Value to the Teaching of Social Studies?
Abstract: This pilot study investigates whether a Geographical Information System (GIS) can add value to the teaching of secondary level social studies courses. The study was conducted with three social studies teachers employed at a New York City high school. Our analysis of the data indicates that the teachers being observed were able to develop new competencies pertaining to GIS. Likewise, they expressed a strong desire to utilize the software more often in their classrooms. In contrast, two of the teachers expressed frustration during the interviews when asked about their ability to navigate through the software. Intentions for a follow-up study with a larger group of teachers are also discussed.
Presider: Eric Luce