James A. Henry

jhenry@mtsu.edu

Ron Zawislak

Geosciences

Master Classroom

KOM 326

New Technology

N/A

This request is for Master Classroom technologies in KOM 326. A diversity of courses is taught in this room, including those dealing with geographical techniques, such as remote sensing, and large sections of world regional geography. About 20 courses a year use this room, with enrollments generally between 20 and 45; approximately 750 undergraduate students will directly benefit annually from this technology. An article in the Journal of Geography entitled "New Technologies in the Geography Classroom" noted: "Perhaps more than any other component of the curriculum, geography instruction can benefit tremendously from technological applications in the classroom." The newest geographic tools and resources include satellite imagery in digital format (which can be easily manipulated by students), digital maps, and internet sources, such as the Geographic Learning Site maintained by the Office of the Geographer, and Global Issues in the State Department. There are also many geographic software programs. The use of these new tools and resources in the classroom has been proven to enhance student interest and learning in all aspects of geography, and an article entitled "Significant New Materials for the Geography Classroom" emphasizes the need for creative and productive classroom strategies involving the many geographic-specific software programs now available.