Share Paper: Make it real: Designing authentic online GIS learning for a K12 audience

  1. Aaron Doering, University of Minnesota, United States
  2. Jeni Henrickson, University of Minnesota, United States
Thursday, October 19 1:45 PM-2:15 PM Parksville

Abstract: Geographic knowledge and spatial thinking skills are key in today’s globally interdependent world New tools and models are needed, however, to guide teachers and learners alike through the process of geographic inquiry using new technologies such as geographic information systems (GIS) EarthXplorers is a new online learning environment that integrates a GIS platform and takes an inquiry- and project-based approach to learning GIS This environment uses US historical sites of significance tied to contemporary issues to advance spatial thinking and geographic inquiry skills Our study explores teacher and student engagement with EarthXplorers as it examines how geographic inquiry, spatial thinking, ...