Spatially Speaking - Reports 2005-06
Progression in GIS
Dr Peter O'Connor, Bishop's Stortford College
Experienced and skilled with GIS, Peter gave invaluable support to the less experienced in the group. In his article Peter demystifies the use of GIS for learning, breaking GIS use into three levels:
- Presenting Spatial Data (the most commonly used in school)
- Processing and Analysing Spatial Data
- Date Input and Editing of Spatial Data
The GA publication GIS for A-level geography by Peter O'Connor was produced in collaboration with ESRI(UK) and includes ArcView software with a 12-month licence.
note: this file requires Microsoft Word.
Cross-curricular GIS
Steve Dunn and Mark Smith, Leeds Grammar School
Experienced and skilled with GIS, Steve and Mark gave support and inspiration to the group. In their report, Steve and Mark show that GIS has importance right across the school curriculum. Skills from literacy and numeracy to problem-solving can be supported through GIS. Their report shows how, through GIS, Geography can take a leading whole school role.
Vocational GIS
Dr Adrian Johnson, Bedford School
Experienced and skilled with GIS, Adrian also supported the less experienced in the group. In his article Adrian shows the vocational importance of GIS, and introduces a vision of school geography working with industry to make geography relevant and exciting.
Beginning with GIS... and Persisting!
Sian Grayson & Terry Charlton, Barton Court Grammar School, Canterbury
Sian took a term's sabbatical to develop her GIS skills for teaching and learning before joining the group. In her article, Sian provides invaluable advice for any teacher new to GIS, that the best starting point is using the many free, straightforward online GIS viewers. She urges caution before committing to the complexity of arcview software, but shows that, if you are determined to change your curriculum, persistence will pay off.
note: this file requires Microsoft Word.
Beginning with GIS... and using free online viewers
Louise Ellis & Sergio Matias, Icknield School, Luton
Louise and Sergio were new to GIS but dynamic and enthusiastic teachers, committed to bringing GIS to their curriculum through their opting for the GIS module of the pilot GCSE. Their report, in common with the other GIS beginners in the group, shows that free online viewers are an effective use of GIS for meaningful and motivating geographical enquiry.
Beginning with GIS... and how to get started
Denise Freeman & Kat Logan, Oak Park School, Ilford
Denise and Kat were also new to GIS, but committed to raising achievement and developing their geography curriculum. Their report again favours free, online GIS viewers as an effective starting point, but adds the importance of pupils understanding something about GIS. They also share their valuable experience of beginning with a new technology and the importance of support in this.
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