This paper describes the development of the hardware-software configuration required for a computerized digitizer-graphics system for encoding locational information at the University of Iowa's Department of Geography and Institute of Urban and Regional Research. Topics covered include system requirements, data structure, hardware configurations,…

The effectiveness of the SCHOLAR computer-assisted instruction system was compared with: (1) the interactive map display of Map-SCHOLAR; (2) a static labeled map; and (3) an unlabeled map. Students learned significantly more with the interactive map display than with either of the other maps. A new method, backtrace analysis, was used to assess…

Described is a project that involved undergraduate geography students in developing a model of the accessibility of the pre-school population in Cardiff (England) to child care clinics. Programing skills were acquired through spatial modelling. Networks of mini- and micro-computers were used. (Author/RM)

Outlines the implementation, production, and assessment of electronic posters in two undergraduate classes, one prepared with Microsoft PowerPoint and the other using hypertext mark-up language (HTML). Describes the advantages of each, along with the grading schemes and comments about implementation. Concludes that the exercises are useful for…

Outlines reasons why computer programming should be taught to geographers. These include experience using macro (scripting) languages and sophisticated visualization software, and developing a deeper understanding of general hardware and software capabilities. Discusses the distinct advantages and few disadvantages of the programming language…

Describes a college level course in which computer mapping is incorporated into the geography curriculum. Discusses problems associated with using commercial mapping software in the general geography classroom. Concludes that students have reduced computer anxiety and a better understanding of geographic concepts as a result of the computer…

This discussion of teaching science as a design activity emphasizes open-ended problem solving. Highlights include the relationship between teachers and students; hypotheses as solutions; and descriptions of four microworlds, or computer simulations, in chemistry, geography, physiology, and genetics which use graphic interfaces. (LRW)