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Integration of geospatial technologies into K-12 curriculum
Title
Integration of geospatial technologies into K-12 curriculum: an investigation of teacher and student perceptions and student academic achievement.
Creator
Goldstein, Donna L., College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description
The purpose of this study was to explore outcomes of a GIS/GPS integration process: to (a) examine student responses to GIS and GPS inclusion in their curriculum, (b) determine whether a relationship exists between inclusion of GIS into existing K-12 curriculum and student achievement, (c) examine the effectiveness of GIS professional development for teachers, and (d) evaluate teacher perceptions of the value of integrating GIS into their existing curricula. This study was quantitative and...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to explore outcomes of a GIS/GPS integration process: to (a) examine student responses to GIS and GPS inclusion in their curriculum, (b) determine whether a relationship exists between inclusion of GIS into existing K-12 curriculum and student achievement, (c) examine the effectiveness of GIS professional development for teachers, and (d) evaluate teacher perceptions of the value of integrating GIS into their existing curricula. This study was quantitative and quasi-experimental in design. The samples consisted of 1,425 students from one middle school and 62 teachers from Palm Beach County School District. Two instruments were used in this study: student surveys and teacher feedback forms. Data from the student surveys indicated that students perceive their learning is enhanced by inclusion of GIS and GPS. Data from the teacher feedback forms revealed positive perceptions of the GIS/GPS program as an integrative tool for their existing curricula and a positive assessment of the GIS professional development training. The relationship between GIS instruction and student academic achievement was evaluated, measured by FCAT reading scores and final grades in science and social studies. The findings support the constructivist theory that students learn best when actively engaged in the process. In this study standardized FCAT reading test results and science and social studies grades corroborate the students' perceptions that GIS and GPS integration enhances their learning. Study results show FCAT reading scores were higher for GIS students than for non-GIS students. The research further indicated a significant increase in FCAT reading scores for non-native English speaking GIS students and a significantly higher average science grade for non-White GIS students., The findings also show that students who had a greater frequency of GIS instruction had higher averages in science and social studies grades. Education reform requires bold initiatives and an organizational culture supportive of innovative ideas. The structured model for development and implementation of GIS in the K-12 public school system presented at the end of this study includes collaboration between district leadership, administrators and teachers, and a comprehensive approach to professional development.
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Date Issued
2010
PURL
http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/1927302
Subject Headings
Geographic information systems, Global Positioning System, Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test, Curriculum planning, Achievement in education
Format
Document (PDF)
Mapping and analyzing the Florida Reef Tract in Palm Beach County in relation to major storm events in a GIS database
Title
Mapping and analyzing the Florida Reef Tract in Palm Beach County in relation to major storm events in a GIS database.
Creator
Pitti, Joseph G., Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Geosciences
Abstract/Description
The Florida Reef Tract in Southeast Florida is made up of hard-bottom formations. The shape and size of the tract is constantly changing. One major factor contributing to these changes is the movement of sand. This is influenced by location-based, human-induced, and natural factors. These shifting sands cover or uncover reef structure. Images of the Florida Reef Tract in Palm Beach County were analyzed by the Department of Geosciences at Florida Atlantic University, using a partially...
Show moreThe Florida Reef Tract in Southeast Florida is made up of hard-bottom formations. The shape and size of the tract is constantly changing. One major factor contributing to these changes is the movement of sand. This is influenced by location-based, human-induced, and natural factors. These shifting sands cover or uncover reef structure. Images of the Florida Reef Tract in Palm Beach County were analyzed by the Department of Geosciences at Florida Atlantic University, using a partially automated method of mapping. There are notable changes in reef structure throughout the years 2004-2006, in which many major storm events occurred in the region. A time series analysis was conducted throughout these years. Losses and gains of reef structure were quantified and compared throughout the county as a whole, in beach renourishment project areas, and inlet intervals. Trends suggest that the major storms of 2004-2006 may have had effects on the reef tract.
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Date Issued
2011
PURL
http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/3172425
Subject Headings
Continental shelf, Mapping, Geographic information systems, Coral reef ecology, Environmental geology, Coral reefs and islands
Format
Document (PDF)
proposed expanded green space plan using GIS for natural areas in Palm Beach County
Title
A proposed expanded green space plan using GIS for natural areas in Palm Beach County.
Creator
Rainyn, Corrie., Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Geosciences
Abstract/Description
In the past 25 years, Palm Beach County has acquired more than 31 million acres of public preserves consisting of numerous native habitats that are home to threatened and endangered flora and fauna. Both endemic habitats and plant species benefit from expansion and connectivity through the adoption of native plants in surrounding areas. The next step in conserving these protected, larger areas is to identify ways to connect them in order to reduce their isolation and improve their likelihood...
Show moreIn the past 25 years, Palm Beach County has acquired more than 31 million acres of public preserves consisting of numerous native habitats that are home to threatened and endangered flora and fauna. Both endemic habitats and plant species benefit from expansion and connectivity through the adoption of native plants in surrounding areas. The next step in conserving these protected, larger areas is to identify ways to connect them in order to reduce their isolation and improve their likelihood of continued ecosystem health. This study aims to perform an analysis using a GIS database of Palm Beach County's Eastern urban areas to determine additional vegetation that currently exists on public lands and private preserves and to analyze and classify the vegetation for its potential conservation role, either as ; preserves, buffers, corridors or clusters connecting and enhancing existing natural areas.
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Date Issued
2012
PURL
http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/3355879
Subject Headings
Urban ecology (Biology), Geographic information systems, Conservation of natural resources, Natural areas, Management, Geographic information systems
Format
Document (PDF)