WK 15 DISCUSSION
Compare the features and instructional applications of GIS and GPS tools. How can educators use GIS and GPS tools to enhance student learning?
These information systems are great for teaching science and social studies in the classroom. They give locations and a lot more engaging information. The GIS is a computer system that is able to store in a database a variety of information about geographic locations. The GPS is a worldwide radio-navigation system made possible by a bank of 24 satellites and their ground stations. When it is connected to mapping software the possibilities are even greater. There are many different lessons that can use each of these systems as a method in teaching. They provide the student with information that can only be seen through these programs.
Kelsie,
ReplyDeleteWhen we use GPS we can also teach Math lessons with it, because we can have the students calculate different buildings dimensions and compare them. GIS and GPS have many of the same features; however I think that it would be great to have both of them in a classroom. The two systems can build off of each other. You could have the students gather information about a geographic location with the GIS and then use the GPS to get specific details about the buildings located there. I agree with you that this kind of information is only possible through these systems. The one thing that I think would stand in the way of a classroom teacher using these is funding.
Kelsie, It is amazing how much technology is involved in our everday lives. Students which have iphones have a gps system in their phones and could probably help teachers understand how to work with it because they are probably aware of the applications more than we are. I love Naomi's comment on using a GPS to calculate dimmensions of bulidings. The use is endless we just need to be creative and the knowledge to use it.
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