Enhancing the Spatial Skills of Non-Geoscience Majors Using the Global Positioning System

Abstract

Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers are a type of scientific equipment that is accessible to the general public and potentially capable of motivating students to learn. Inexpensive receivers provide students with experience aimed at developing spatial awareness and practicing mathematical skills as they acquire data and analyze it through calculation and mapping. Here I report on an experimental use of GPS in a small honors class, with the goal of eventually applying it more broadly in introductory courses. GPS was incorporated into an existing physical-geology course in the form of six laboratory and homework exercises (for example, marking positions with latitude and longitude, closing a triangle, drawing maps) with positive results. Students enjoyed using the technology, appreciated working outside the classroom, and learned the basics of GPS, while developing directional and spatial awareness and quantitative skills in trigonometry, graphing, and use of computer spreadsheets. Successful introduction of GPS into this small class augurs well for its use in larger general-education courses.

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