Geography Reference
In-Depth Information
classes and is strongly infl uenced by the National Curriculum Standards. Here, the
author describes the current state of geography education and offer some thoughts
toward improving it, using maps, globes, and cognitive space.
8.2
Map and Globe Skills
8.2.1
The Relationship Between Maps and Globes
In the visualization of space, maps and globes have a complementary relationship.
Maps are usually fl at, whereas globes are three-dimensional (spherical). However, if
we see the surface of a globe as two-dimensional, then it becomes a map representing
the earth. The inability to acculately project globes is a limitation that cannot be
ignored, but for the most part maps accurately depict the Earth's surface.
Geography teachers cannot possess any real vision if there is no concern for how
learners read, interpret, and make use of maps and globes to advance their studies
and daily lives. Teachers who consider geography important have a wish to impart
to students the ability to use maps and globes. In the United States, these are referred
to as map and globe skills, which are recognized in both education and general
society (Tabe
2009
).
Contemporary society is fi lled with complex information that cannot be correctly
deciphered without map and globe skills. For example, news of an earthquake disas-
ter in the Tibetan Autonomous Region of western China or reports of a mining
accident in Chile are best understood by engaging map and globe skills to create a
mental image of the space. Through these skills, one can visualize where the event
occurred, climate of the location, vegetation in the region, or the kind of lives that
victims led prior to the natural hazard. In particular, a globe is an effective tool for
conceptualizing the seasons based on spatial information (e.g., location in the
Northern or Southern hemisphere relative to the Equator).
Maps and globes have many uses in daily life. For example, when one is searching
the location of a conference building in a city center, a detailed map of the city is invalu-
able. Use of maps is common for drivers with a Global Positioning System (GPS).
In essence, we use and study geography every day. Although we may not use globes
daily, their value is apparent when the need arises. Without a globe, it would be more
diffi cult to understand what it is like on the other side of the world, to have a culturally
sensitive conversation with Japanese-Brazilians, to examine the global impact of
climate change or ocean pollution, or follow routes taken by famous explorers.
In other words, map and globe skills are tools for survival in contemporary society
and a core form of knowledge.
8.2.2
Maps and Globes as Skills
Next, the author discusses the relationship between spatial cognition, map, and
globe skills.
