Celebrate World GIS Day: Nov 14

What is GIS?

Have you heard of this creative tool? It has been used to create interactive maps that allow audiences to analyze spatial data. “A geographic information system (GIS) is a framework for gathering, managing, and analyzing data. Rooted in the science of geography, GIS integrates many types of data. It analyzes spatial location and organizes layers of information into visualizations using maps and 3D scenes.” (ESRI, 2018)

Why do we love GIS?

Illuminating green careers worldwide
A powerful tool for sustainable development (See Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs)
Accessible to students
Many creative applications to raise awareness on matters of efficiency, sustainability and justice

How to sign up for Esri’s GIS tool: Survey123?

Hey teachers, did you know that if you have a @gnspes.ca email, you are eligible to a free Esri account? The Survey123 program is a simple application of GIS, and an easy way to integrate this learning tool in the classroom. By creating surveys, collecting and pooling data, you can collect and map out your own data.

We can use maps as a tool to answer important and complex questions:

Are you interested in discovering how a community has been or will be affected by climate change?
Are you looking for information about the health and location of all trees in a certain area?
What questions do your students have that can be answered through mapping technology like GIS?

Here are some resources to help you get started:

Survey123 Web Designer for K-12 Education Presentation
Survey123 tutorial
Inspiration – blog post on students using Survey123: Giving a voice to youth in urban planning with Survey123 and ArcGIS Online
Tutorials to get started with ArcGIS Online:
Intro to ArcGIS Online
Six by Six Activity

Contact k12@esri.ca or get in touch with info@greenschoolsns.ca if you have other questions.

Green Schools Success Story:

CAPE BRETON STUDENTS CREATE STORY MAP FOR RIGHT WHALE RESEARCH

Learn more about GIS:

What is GIS?
GIS and Energy
GIS and Sustainable Development
Teaching GIS in the Classroom (Free online course)
GIS in STEM Education

~Kelsey Brasil, Agente d’engagement/Engagement Officer