Teaching and learning Secondary School Geography with current and future ICTs

Current and future Trends• Technological developments – adapting,

availability and cost.• Software is becoming more user friendly.• Pearson atlas example – how education

companies are creating resources that are more interactive. DVDs that are accompanying textbooks.

Technology and GeographyComputersGPSInternetElectronic whiteboardSoftware: Google earth, Geographic

Information Systems (GIS) e.g. MapWindow etc.

Why ICT is important to Geography?Student interest – linking to motivation.ICT provides - good illustrations – an

interactive environment.Fast access to information. Gardeners multiple intelligences – can also

be catered for.ICP – Investigate, Communicate and

Participate.

Podcast: Making Geography Relevant in Our Schools.

Study of students dissatisfaction with geography.

Perception that geography is irrelevant.

http://www.directionsmag.com/images/podcasts/080122_don.mp3

Website: Pearsonhttp://www.pearsonplaces.com.au/

secondary/geography.aspx This illustrates the power of the internet in

education.I. Being able to access more information.II. Textbooks are limited to the number of

pages they have. Wide range of activities provide. Gardeners Multiple intelligences.

Pearson learning example:

Google EarthIs a fantastic tool for exploring the planet.Both physical and cultural geography can be

explored.Mapping skills can be taught.GIS.Plug-ins can be added – showing: population

density, sea level estimates, ocean currents, biomes etc...

Video clip: Teaching with Google Earth

Article: Geographic Information System (GIS)Careers in GIS involve working with computer technology to process data.

Data capturing in GIS is increasingly changing to ICT.

Geography teachers in schools should teach GIS with ICT to remain relevant.

GIS Picture examples:

WebquestResources and links are provided.

Encourages learning through the internet.

Provides a structured environment on the internet.

Example:

Layout of a webquest

[Online] http://www.winthrop.k12.ma.us/Center/geography_webquest.htm

ConclusionICT in geography education is irreversible.

Developments in technology and software.

Teachers need to adapt and modify subjects to keep up with future trends.

Reference List: Kerski, J. (2003). The Implementation and Effectiveness of Geographic Information

Systems Technology and Methods in Secondary Education. Journal of Geography, 102(3), 128-137.

Hill, A. & Solent, M. (1999). Geography on the Web: Changing the Learning Paradigm?. Journal of Geography, 98(3), 100-107.

Francica, J., & Schutzberg, A., 2008. Making Geography Relevant in our Schools. [Online] http://www.directionsmag.com/images/podcasts/080122_don.mp3

Smith, K., 2006. Teaching Area and Perimeter using Google Earth. [Online] retrieved from: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PHwrehm6HO8

Pearson, 2009. My World Geography. [Online] retrieved from: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GwvbNGuKxvI