Geography Reference
In-Depth Information
Developing a Geo-Collaborative Web Map
to Support Student Fieldwork
James O'Brien and Kenneth Field
Abstract We begin by reiterating the pedagogic benefits of fieldwork and
e-Learning individually before demonstrating added value by integrating the two
with social networks and a collaborative infrastructure. Utilizing an exercise
repeated over 2 days with identical goals but different instructional methodologies,
we present the results from students' engagement within our geocollaborative web
map environment. We developed an innovative, award winning fieldcourse
experience by building on web-based learning undertaken before the trip,
enhanced staff—student communication, reflective learning and inquiry-based
learning during the trip through widespread use of mobile technology and social
networks.
Keywords Web-based cartography
Mashups
Map design
Social media
Fieldwork
Pedagogy
Geocollaboration
1 Introduction
The value of fieldwork in geographical education is generally highlighted as being
important (summarized in McGuinness and Simm (
2005
)). Many of these argu-
ments in favour of fieldwork argue that placing theoretical learning in the practical
