Integrating flexible e-learning and mobile technologies in geography

Abstract

This project is aimed at developing students’ key skills relating to fundamental approaches to geographical enquiry by embedding the use of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and mobile technologies into students’ course of study.

The use of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and mobile technologies in the work place has increased significantly in recent years; hence, there is a pressing need to develop courses that embed this new technology and enhance graduates’ skills base (Naismith, 2005). After 1 year, the aim was to have a fully functioning Level 1 10 credit module comprising 2 new projects employing mobile technologies and delivered via a WebCT platform together with the adaptation of a third project for delivery by WebCT. The module aims to use a flexible, student-centred approach along with groupwork to develop key subject-specific and transferable skills. The project mapped directly onto this School’s learning and teaching strategy which places emphasis on responding in a timely and effective way to changes in disciplinary, educational, technological and professional environments and to producing graduates with high quality transferable skills so as to be effective participants in their post-university careers.