The Potential of the SMART Learning Framework to Design and Implement Geospatial Curricula in the Secondary Classroom

Abstract

This study investigates the didactic educational use of Web GIS in the framework of SMART learning and its potential to help students’ practice geospatial thinking. Using qualitative, exploratory action research methods, four classroom experiences were designed, developed, implemented, and analyzed. The findings support the claims that the use of Web GIS facilitates geographic knowledge and enhances spatial and digital competencies and skills. Additionally, in line with the SMART framework and perspective on learning, these findings indicate that such classroom approaches promote autonomous learning, is adaptable in diverse settings, and is motivating for students.

Keywords:

• Geography
• competencies
• spatial thinking
• education
• cartography
• web GIS

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Funding

This research was funded by Innovative Pedagogies for Teaching with Geoinformation (GI-Pedagogy) (2019-1-UK01-KA203-061576) and UNED.