Courses = The GPS Classroom

The GPS Classroom

Class Description:

Designed for teachers, this class focuses on using a GPS (Global Positioning System) as an educational tool. We first provide a foundation of what a GPS is and how it works. Next, we assist participants with practical skills needed to use the GPS. Finally, we offer general ideas for application and specific project-based learning examples for effectively using this technology tool. Bring your GPS (or borrow one) and learn basics of finding waypoints and developing caches that can be used in a cross-curricular classroom. See a demonstration, participate in a sample lesson, and practice GPS mapping to create your own mini-project.

Pre-requisites:

Basic computer and Internet skills

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completion of this course participants will:

  • Understand how GPS units work and be able to transfer data from the GPS to their computer and vice versa.
  • Identify and develop a project-based learning activity for their students using a GPS.
  • Understand a variety of ways GPS units use can be integrated into their core curriculum and research-based classroom practices.
  • Be able to use GPS units in a project that challenges students to reach higher levels of thinking based on Bloom’s taxonomy.

Things to Bring:

Optional: participants are encouraged to bring their own GPS (Be sure to also bring the cables and software that came with the GPS). We can provide a few GPS units for practice (participants may have to share). Also, be sure to dress appropriately for the weather conditions, since we will be outdoors for a good portion of the class.

**Please be aware that this class involves moderate walking/hiking. Contact the instructor for more information.

Credit:

1 hour USOE credit
1 semester hour SUU credit

Points:

14 licensure points

This class meets the following NETS for teachers:
I.B, II.A, B, C, D & E, III.A, B, C & D, IV.A & B, V.B, VI.A & B

Assignment:

Using the UEN Lesson Plan tool, develop and implement a lesson that incorporates a GPS activity. You should include the following fields in your lesson plan: Summary, Curriculum Tie, Intended Learning Outcomes, Instructional Procedures, and Assessment Plan.

Include with your lesson plan a reflective paper. In your paper:

  • Describe how you used the GPS in the classroom and how the activity benefited your students.
  • Evaluate your activity and describe its effectiveness incorporating the GPS as a learning tool.
  • Include the state core standard(s) the project is tied to, as well as a description of the critical thinking skill(s) from Bloom’s Taxonomy that your students will use when completing the activity.