Geographic Information Systems

Using cutting-edge, user-friendly technology to visualize, question, analyze, interpret and display data.

Facilitator: Harris Payne, Social Studies Specialist, NDE

Target Audience: 5-12 social studies, science, agriculture, high ability, world language, technology teachers and coordinators. Teachers are welcome to bring 2 students to this workshop.

GIS stands for Geographic Information Systems. GIS is the second fastest growing technology in the United States. GIS is utilized by the military, businesses, government agencies and in agriculture. The GIS site license is free for schools and web-based. NDE has been doing trainings in GIS since 2014 and Nebraska now ranks 5th in per capital school site licenses (https://www.arcgis.com/apps/MapSeries/index.htmlappid=c369c6d9bb6d4232bb3ad066cd5b9280).

WORKSHOP GOALS:
* Introduce students & teachers to the basics of GIS story maps by examining soil health and creating an original story map
* Train teachers how to use the free school GIS software license
* Explore real world GIS connections and careers
* Prepare students to aid teachers with GIS throughout the school year

NEBRASKA GIS EDUCAITONAL WEBSITE:
http://needgis.maps.arcgis.com/home/index.html

GRANT FUNDED
* Grant funds pay for up to $150 for teacher substitute
* Lunch provided for students and teachers (each teacher brings 2 students)
* Transportation up to 100 miles (roundtrip) using a school vehicle by teachers to bring themselves and students to the workshop
* Schools have 30 days after the workshop to request reimbursement

Funding for the workshop has been provided by a generous grant from the Nebraska Environmental Trust.