Theses and Dissertations at Montana State University (MSU)
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Item Legends, lines, learning: GIS map focused curriculum and its effect on student learning and engagement(Montana State University - Bozeman, College of Letters & Science, 2022) Hodge, Katherine Waller; Chairperson, Graduate Committee: C. John GravesThough maps have been part of classroom curricula for thousands of years, digital mapping resources are a new tool for teachers. However, how effective are digital maps, like GIS, at teaching students historical as well as science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) information? In this study, five 7th and 8th grade level classrooms in Montana and Wyoming were given a curriculum with GIS maps to pilot. The results have shown that students learn very well with GIS maps and absorbed the information. The data showed that student confidence with STEM and digital learning platforms increased. Additionally, the qualitative data from the teachers showed that ArcGIS is a user-friendly platform they enjoyed using as a teaching tool. These results indicate that digital maps, like physical maps, are valuable teaching tools from which students benefit.Item The impacts of Global Information Systems (GIS) learning activities on high school students' attitudes and behaviors(Montana State University - Bozeman, College of Letters & Science, 2021) Calvi, Gabriel; Chairperson, Graduate Committee: Greg FrancisDo students view using computer based mapping software or Global Information Systems (GIS) as hands-on, real-world learning activities? This study investigated student attitudes and behaviors around using GIS in a high school earth science curriculum. A single treatment compared three types of assignments during one unit of study. Students engaged in a traditional hands-on lab, a computer based assignment, and an assignment that used GIS. Students engagement for each assignment was measured using an observation rubric, completion rates were monitored, and student attitudes were tested using a student survey and student interviews. Students demonstrated a preference for hands-on labs, and GIS assignments were viewed as more hands-on when compared to other computer-based assignments. Students perceived GIS assignments as more relevant than other assignments. GIS assignments can be used to increase relevance in an earth science curriculum and to make computer-based curriculum feel more hands-on.