Teaching geography and information technology: The use of GIS in innovative pedagogical experiences

Abstract

This paper accounts for an innovative pedagogical experience carried out within the terms of the DINIECE, MECYT - FAHCE, UNLP agreement, which calls for the use of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) with pedagogical purposes. Such experience took place in the course called "Urban Itineraries Seminar" at the Colegio Nacional Rafael Hernández, UNLP. From a geographical and didactic critical belief, the students were encouraged to understand the socio-environmental reality they live in. In order to do this, environmental issues were identified in the area of La Plata by means of a territorial and spatial analysis. The students lived and experienced a new line of work in which innovation was signated by the use of new technologies (GIS) together with the didactic methodology which encourages meaningful learning.