Science Goes Spatial: Geotechnologies in the Classroom

Abstract

Geospatial technology is one of the three most important emerging and rapidly evolving fields in science, business, and industry. Although geotechnologies such as Geographic Information Systems seem to be a natural fit for the classroom, many schools lag behind in introducing students to geospatial technologies. One major reason is the investmeni of time required for teachers to acquire and become conversant with geospatial software and to develop instructional materials that enhance student learning. This paper describes a geospatial professional development effort underway in Montana entitled Science Goes Spatial: Geotechnologies in the Classroom (GTEC). The GTEC project identifies critical system supports for teachers, models effective and developmentally appropriate uses of emerging geospatial technologies, builds leadership teams within and across school districts, and shares the possibilities of geotechnologies through the establishment of an online interactive spatial data portal.