The Status of Geography in the Social Studies Curricula of Canadian Schools

Abstract

Successful curriculum development that will have impact upon individual American classrooms remains the key to maintaining the momentum of Geography for Life: National Geography Standards 1994. Teachers and students must be able to translate the national geography standards from the national stage to the local classroom setting to become geographically informed people. One example of this development for elementary urban geography is the Main Street lesson plan. It encourages observation and analysis required by Standard 4: The geographically informed student knows and understands the physical and human characteristics of places. After testing in a variety of Missouri classrooms, instructors thought that Main Street was a unique way of studying urban places and allowing students to gain a greater understanding of place.     

Integrating geographical information systems and multiple criteria decision-making methods

Abstract

Many spatial decision-making problems, such as site selection or land use allocation require the decision-maker to consider the impacts of choice-alternatives along multiple dimensions in order to choose the best alternative. The decision-making process, involving policy priorities, trade-offs, and uncertainties, can be aided by Multiple Criteria Decision making (MCDM) methods. This paper presents a framework for integrating geographical information systems (GIS) and MCDM methods. In this framework the MCDM methods are classified and matched with choice heuristics used by the decision-makers in the presence of competing alternatives and multiple evaluation criteria. Two strategies for integrating GIS with MCDM are proposed. The first strategy suggests linking GIS and MCDM techniques using a file exchange mechanism. The second strategy suggests integrating GIS and MCDM functions using a common database. The paper presents the implementation of the first strategy using PC-ARC/INFO, a file exchange module, and four different MCDM computer programs.     

The Emergence of Standardized,Idealized, and Placeless Landscapes in Midwestern Main Street Postcards

Although Main Streets line small towns from Florida to Alaska, Main Street is more than just a street name; it is a place imbued with local pride, regional identity, and national virtues. This symbolic connection derives from the Midwestern Main Streets of the first half of the twentieth century, a time that coincides with the golden age of the picture postcard. This article explores how the connotative and denotative symbols from this golden age overlap. A sample of 140 postcards from small towns in Kansas and Nebraska with a viable Main Street from 1900 to 1945 was selected from books, personal collections, and Internet auction sites. Our discovery of a disconnect between picture postcard and reality was not surprising, but there was a shift from the significance of basic denotative signs and the particularities of individual Main Streets in the early part of the twentieth century to an increased importance of connotative signs unifying a homogeneous Main Street ideal. Three distinct eras of postcard manipulation emerged from the data: A slightly manipulated 1900–1911 era, a 1912–1930 era emphasizing a corridor of progress, and a 1931–1945 era that displayed a growing detachment from reality and moved from the unique characteristics of a particular town toward a homogenized and idealized “Main Street view.” This article offers empirical evidence for the theoretical propositions of humanist and critical geographers that the representations of the American landscape are becoming increasingly homogenized, contrived, and placeless.     

Parallelizing visibility computations on triangulated terrains

Abstract

In this paper we address the problem of computing visibility information on digital terrain models in parallel. We propose a parallel algorithm for computing the visible region of an observation point located on the terrain. The algorithm is based on a sequential triangle-sorting visibility approach proposed by De Floriani et al. (1989). Static and dynamic parallelization strategies, both in terms of partitioning criteria and scheduling policies, are discussed. The different parallelization strategies are implemented on an MIMD multicomputer and evaluated through experimental results.     

A Review of “Diasporas”

This paper examines the ways that community policing organizes urban space in order to increase the police's ability to observe and to enforce. The logic of that organization, I argue, rests in the particular way that police are integrating civilians into police practice as part of community policing's police-community partnership, a partnership that is characterized by the concrete metaphor of a policing body. This paper presents the results of twenty months of field research with the Boston Police Department whose community policing program, Neighborhood Policing, is being hailed as a national model.     

Development and application of global databases: considerable progress,but more collaboration needed

Abstract

This paper reviews the development of international collaboration in the availability of global data and processing abilities in the environmental field, beginning in 1957 with tie pioneering activities of the World Data Centres. Considerable progress has been made, particularly through the availability of satellite data, but there are considerable shortcomings in these achievements, arising from the isolated nature of many developments, the difficulties of integrating different sources and weaknesses in the top-down approach. There are now attempts to develop a complementary bottom-up approach, notably through the Global Change Diskette Project Developments in hardware, such as the widespread availability of compatible personal computers operating on MS-DOS and UNIX systems; and easier storage on compact disks, and in software, through access to low-cost and public-domain software such as GRASS and IDRISI, are helping but improved collaboration is needed, in which existing institutions such as the World Data Centers have a major part to play.     

Resources,Economy and Conservation

Abstract

Robert D. Campbell. Pakistan: Emerging Democracy. D. Van Nostrand Company, Inc., 120 Alexander Street, Princeton, N.J., 1963. 144 pages. $1.45.

John W. Alcuantler. Economic Geography. Prentice-Hall, Inc. Englcwood Cliffs, N.J., 1963, ix and 661 pages with table of contents, maps, photographs, diagrams, suggested reading and index $8.95.

Benjamin Higgins with Jean Higgins. Indonesia: The Crisis of the Millstones. D. Van Nostrand Co., Inc. Princeton, N.J., 1963. With 144 pages, preface, table of contents, bibliography, appendix and maps. $1.45.

Wyatt Blassingaine arid Richard Glendinning. The Frontier Doctors. Franklin Watts, Inc., New York 22, N.Y., 1963. 32.95.

F. S. Hudson. North America. London House and Maxwell, 122 E. 55th Street, New York 22, K.Y., 1962. 460 pages with table of contents, maps, illustrations, bibliography and index. $6.25.

Harold J. Barnett and Chandler Morse. Scarcity and Growth: The Economics of Natural Resource Availability. Published for Resources for the Future by The Johns Hopkiris Press, Baltimore 18, Md., 1963. 288 pages, index, graphs a i d charts. $5.50.     

Computing aspects of a large geographic information system for the European Community

Abstract

The CORINE programme (Co-ordinaled' Information on the European Environment) has been underway since 1985. Its purpose is to provide information on the environment of the entire European Community in a form suitable for assisting policy making. Such data must be accurate, integrated and readily available to the personnel for whom the system is designed. The system must be capable of dealing with large amounts of spatially-linked data from many different sources, in text, vector or raster form. The use of a geographic information system (GIS) is therefore essential. This paper describes the use of an interim system as a ‘bed’ for beginning the process of acquiring and integrating data. The data sets available are soils, climate, topography and ‘biotopes) (important areas for nature conservation). A data transfer format has been devised to provide for ease of transfer between various sites in the European Community with different mainframe computers. The interim system ensures that the needs of users can be defined and provides valuable user experience before a permanent system is installed. Other issues examined include the use of national and international networks and problems of integrating data when incorporating existing digital data from disparate sources into a large GIS.     

An Investigation of the Use of Real-Time,Authentic Geospatial Data in the K–12 Classroom

Abstract

This article situates geospatial technologies as a constructivist tool in the K-12 classroom and examines student experiences with real-time authentic geospatial data provided through a hybrid adventure learning environment. Qualitative data from seven student focus groups demonstrate the effectiveness of using real-time authentic data, peer collaboration, and geospatial technologies in learning geography. We conclude with recommendations about geospatial technology curricula, geospatial lesson design, providing preservice teachers with geographic technological pedagogical content knowledge, and encouraging further research to investigate the impact, affordances, and pedagogical implications of geospatial technologies and data in the K–12 classroom.     

Preview of Films

Abstract

BULLDOZED AMERICA, Carousel Films, Inc., 1501 Broadway, New York, New York, 10036, 24 minutes, 16mm, sound black and white, 1965. For prices inquire of distributor.

THE COMMUNITY AIRPORT, Sigma Educational Films, P.O. Box 1235, Studio City, California 91604, 11 minutes, 16mm, sound, color and black and white, 1966. $125 and $75.

MODERN EGYPT, McGraw-Hill Book Company, Text-Film Department, 330 West 42nd Street, New York, New York 10036, 18 minutes, 16mm, sound, color and black and white, 1965. For price inquire of distributor. Produced by Audio Productions. Curriculum Consultant: Kate P. Miamo.

TERRA NOVA, Sterling Educational Films, Inc., 241 East 34th Street, New York, New York 10016, 19 minutes, 16mm, sound, black and white, 1963. $100. Produced by the National Film Board of Canada.

THE GREAT CENTRAL VALLEY OF CALIFORNIA, Cypress Films, P.O. Box 4872, Carmel, California 93921, 17 minutes, 16 mm, sound, color, no date. For price inquire of distributor. Collaborator: Howard McGregor.

A COUNTRY CALLED EUROPE, McGraw-Hill Book Company, Text-Film Department, 330 West 42nd Street, New York, New York 10036, 21 minutes, 16mm, sound, color and black and white, no date. $260 and $1 20.     

Experienced Teacher Participation in Preservice Programs: A Model in Geography at the University of Northern Colorado

Abstract

This paper discusses a model program for preparing secondary geography teachers in the Department of Geography at the University of Northern Colorado. The key feature of the program is the presence of an outstanding secondary teacher in residence throughout the year who team-teaches the Teaching Methods in Geography and World Geography courses with geography faculty, modeling effective ways of teaching the subject. Students are paired with Colorado Geographic Alliance teacher-consultants in summer institutes and for student teaching. Analysis of formative evaluation data collected through the third year provides some measure of the program's success. Students have responded favorably to the use of a variety of teaching strategies, the opportunity to discuss with faculty why certain strategies are utilized, and how their own constructed lessons have worked in their student teaching. They have also reported that their understanding of geography has improved from taking the team-taught courses.     

Maps the Blind Can See

Abstract

The Thrifty Geographer Like previous reviews in this series, the eighth Thrifty Geographer examines MS/PC-DOS software that costs less than $51.00. New programs reviewed below deal with one of the staples of geography, maps. We also give an update on an atlas program that was first reviewed in 1992. AUTOMAP EUROPE, Automap Inc., Building C-113, 9831 South 51st Street, Phoenix, AZ 85044. $49.50.

AUTOMAP EUROPE, Automap Inc., Building C-l13,9831 South 51st Street, Phoenix, AZ 85044. $49.50.

Water Resources Management: In Search of an Environmental Ethic by David Lewis Feldman Baltimore, MD: The Johns Hopkins University Press, 1991. 247 pp.

The Hispano Homeland by Richard L. Nostrand Norman: University of Oklahoma Press, 1992. xiv and 281 pp., maps, illustrations, tables, appendixes, index, and bibliography. ISBN 0-8061-2414-8. $29.95.

Volcanoes by Rodman Snead Lincoln, Nebraska: National Council for Geographic Education/Great Plains National. 1993. 60 slides, annotations, bibliography. $70.00.     

Exploring Cultural Universals

Abstract

This article identifies teaching strategies to explore cultural universals. Traits that contribute to distinguishing one culture from another can be classified into general categories that all cultures share. Students identify universals in their daily lives and then compare and contrast different cultural perspectives through an exploration of these universals. Computer technology provides access to images and information about other cultures that might be used to increase students' understanding of cultural perspectives. The Internet provides a vehicle for classrooms to exchange cooperative creative writing stories that allow students the opportunity to explore different cultural perspectives through the eyes of other students around the world. Suggestions about how to establish and conduct a classroom exchange project over the Internet are provided.     

Social Applications of Geographical Information Systems: technical tools for social innovation

ABSTRACT

The establishment of the National Key Centre for Social Applications of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) in 1995, under the directorship of Professor Graeme Hugo, was a turning point in the use of GIS in Australia. The field of GIS, previously dominated by environmental applications, now broadened its focus to include populations, services and the interactions between people and the environment. Social applications of GIS offered a unique opportunity to make service planning, reporting, funding allocations and research both smarter and fairer. Geography and geographic relationships as implemented in GIS became the integrating platform for social spatial information, invigorating social research, planning and policy. A key strength of this approach, recognised by Professor Hugo, was the ability to ‘put people back into the planning process’. Further to being an integrating platform, GIS also offered the ability to generate new information and knowledge, which could facilitate evidence-based decision making. This paper focuses in particular on providing a written record of the development of the Accessibility/Remoteness Index of Australia (ARIA) suite of spatial accessibility indices. The lasting legacy and continued relevance of this work in social applications of GIS is also reviewed in this paper, with reference to key examples of how social research and planning in Australia have been made both smarter and fairer through the contributions of Professor Hugo and his team.     

Internet-Based GIS in an Inductive Learning Environment: A Case Study of Ninth-Grade Geography Students

Abstract

This article reports the results of a qualitative case study that explored the use of Internet-based geographic information systems (IGIS) with ninth-grade geography students. The students worked in teams to examine the geography of Africa using IGIS resources with the instructional goal of developing a presentation on a significant issue facing one region or country. The purpose of this study was to explore the use of IGIS as a tool for integrating geospatial technologies into ninth-grade geography curriculum and instruction within an inductive learning environment. The findings for this study indicate that IGIS can be a successful tool for geography education in an inductive learning environment. Based on qualitative data collected through classroom observations, focus group interviews with students, student work samples, and a teacher journal, two assertions are offered: students perceived expanded freedom as a positive aspect of this IGIS project and IGIS projects such as this can lead to gains in students' cultural awareness and empathy for distant others.     

新媒体影响下仿制景观的兴起及其形象塑造：以佛山日本街为例

自2000年以来开始出现的大量仿制景观,从经济、社会、文化和政治方面重塑了中国的城市空间,但却没有引起学者的普遍关注。以新兴出现的微型仿制景观——佛山日本街为例,运用实地调查和话语分析方法,首先理清佛山日本街的仿制要素及其特征,以及佛山日本街的兴起原因,其次利用社交平台的文本数据分析新媒体影响下佛山日本街的形象塑造,进而探讨佛山日本街不同形象的产生根源。研究发现,佛山日本街的仿制要素虽受到日本城市街道形态以及ACGN亚文化的启发,但本质上是一种文化借用式的网红打卡地;资本竞争和新型社交方式是佛山日本街兴起的主要动力要素,而新冠肺炎疫情影响下的旅游环境变化进一步刺激和提升了佛山日本街的打卡热度和知名度;在新媒体的影响下,社交平台用户对佛山日本街的讨论主要聚焦于文化原真性和抄袭侵权两个方面,导致其塑造的形象正面、负面并存。     

Network Topology and City Accessibility of the Commercial Internet

The rapid growth in this decade of World Wide Web access through the Internet is supported by a complex matrix of telecommunications infrastructure. This paper presents an overview of the history of the Internet and recent efforts to measure its structure and performance, and examines the spatial organization of the commercial Internet backbone. The research presented in this paper differs from previous Internet measurement work in that we apply network analysis methods to evaluate Internet connectivity. Transportation network analysis techniques are applied to measure 1) connectivity of individual service provider networks and 2) accessibility of cities to Internet service. The results reveal many different strategies implemented by service providers in network design as well as large differences in levels of accessibility of cities and regions in the United States. There is also an apparent disparity between population and city accessibility to the Internet.     

Exploring Youth Cultures Geographically Through Active Learning

Abstract

This paper presents strategies for actively involving students in studying cultural geography through a research project on youth cultures. It provides a basic framework to investigate selected “subcultures” focusing on the origin and diffusion of each culture, its material and non-material aspects and the attributes and meanings of spaces used by each cultural group and youth cultures in the context of change. Students used a variety of methodologies to gather data and to describe and analyze the cultures selected. Of the eleven youth cultures investigated by the class, examples from the cultures of raves, skateboarding, and the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) are selectively presented to elucidate their geographic characteristics.     

Curricular Changes in the Teaching of Geography in Swiss Upper Secondary Schools: An Attempt to Develop Skills for Lifelong Learning

Abstract

This article is an overview of the curriculum reform in Switzerland in the 1990s. It describes the grass-roots reform process in geography education in upper secondary schools and its impact on the development of new teaching materials. These ancillary materials are based on teaching methods and strategies, the effectiveness of which are empirically shown by results. The teaching units complement the thematic and methodological aims in the national curriculum and the federal regulations and were designed through a partnership of teachers, teacher educators and scientists. They can be translated directly into the practice of teaching and are available free to teachers through the World Wide Web.