Using a Web GIS Plate Tectonics Simulation to Promote Geospatial Thinking

Autor/inn/en	Bodzin, Alec M.; Anastasio, David; Sharif, Rajhida; Rutzmoser, Scott
Titel	Using a Web GIS Plate Tectonics Simulation to Promote Geospatial Thinking
Quelle	In: Journal of Geoscience Education, 64 (2016) 4, S.279-291 (13 Seiten) PDF als Volltext (1); PDF als Volltext kostenfreie Datei (2) Verfügbarkeit
Sprache	englisch
Dokumenttyp	gedruckt; online; Zeitschriftenaufsatz
ISSN	1089-9995
DOI	10.5408/15-122.1
Schlagwörter	Plate Tectonics; Geographic Information Systems; Geographic Location; Geographic Concepts; Simulation; Earth Science; Thinking Skills; Scaffolding (Teaching Technique); Instructional Materials; Spatial Ability; College Science; Science Education; Science Instruction; Undergraduate Students + Suchen Sie Ihr Suchwort? Plattentektonik; Simulation program; Simulationsprogramm; Earth sciences; Geowissenschaften; Denkfähigkeit; Lehrmaterial; Lehrmittel; Unterrichtsmedien; Räumliches Vorstellungsvermögen; Naturwissenschaftliche Bildung; Teaching of science; Science education; Natural sciences Lessons; Naturwissenschaftlicher Unterricht
Abstract	Learning with Web-based geographic information system (Web GIS) can promote geospatial thinking and analysis of georeferenced data. Web GIS can enable learners to analyze rich data sets to understand spatial relationships that are managed in georeferenced data visualizations. We developed a Web GIS plate tectonics simulation as a capstone learning activity in an undergraduate Earth Science course that integrated geological and geophysical data sets to allow students to dynamically reconstruct ancient plate motions. To assess the effectiveness of the Web GIS tectonics simulation, all 12 students in the course submitted three artifacts that were assessed with a reliable, criterion-based rubric. The students also completed a survey to assess the effectiveness of the online interface and its capability to promote geospatial thinking. The students preformed quite well on the assignment. The survey results supported that the students perceived the Web GIS tectonics simulation as having helped them think geospatially. Our Web GIS design and embedded capabilities allowed students to advance and confirm their understandings about the tectonics concepts. Student responses indicated that the Web GIS supported their geospatial analysis for making inferences about space, geospatial patterns, and geospatial relationships among the data that were visualized in the Web GIS. Design features that contributed to the successful implementation are discussed. (As Provided).
Anmerkungen	National Association of Geoscience Teachers. Carleton College W-SERC, One North College Street, Northfield, MN 55057. Tel: 540-568-6675; Fax: 540-568-8058; e-mail: jge@jmu.edu; Website: http://nagt-jge.org
Erfasst von	ERIC (Education Resources Information Center), Washington, DC
Update	2020/1/01