This study investigates whether spatial learning outcomes differ with respect to different instructional media. Spatial thinking skills were tested pre- and postlesson implementation via the spatial thinking ability test as eighth grade students participated in either paper-based or digital map-based instruction. Students' attitudes toward…

The spatial thinking skills and attitudes of geography majors were compared with those of future teachers majoring in elementary education and secondary social studies education. Scores were obtained for each group on two measures: the spatial skills test and the attitude toward spatial thinking inventory. Mean differences were examined based on…

After fifteen years of geographic education efforts, a baseline geography skills test was repeated in Indiana. In 2002, 2,278 students in college freshman geography courses were tested with a revision of the National Council for Geographic Education Competency-Based Geography Test, Secondary Level Form II. The test measured geographic ability in…

Airline travel provides those interested in geography with opportunities to see and photograph rural and urban scenes. Author describes circuitous routing, joint fares, and stopover techniques that maximize domestic and international air travel experiences. Defines various airline and travel agent terminology. (Author/BC)

Discusses those U.S. counties that the State Department has forbidden former Soviet government personnel to enter. Includes a U.S. map indicating closed counties. Explains that the policy came in response to restrictions on foreigners' movements in the former Soviet Union. Suggests that teachers have students explore why particular U.S. regions…

Develops a simple model of network growth of the American railroad in the midwest during the period 1865-1915. Because it simplifies the explanation of a complex phenomenon that greatly affected the American landscape, the model can be used in a study of historical geography of the United States. (Author/AV)

The cruise ship industry relates directly to many features of the natural and cultural environments. The U.S. cruise ship industry is analyzed. Discusses the size of the industry, precruise passenger liners, current cruise ships, cruise regions and routes, ports of call, major ports, passengers, and future prospects. (RM)

Unit and student objectives are described for a teaching unit which familiarizes elementary students with career opportunities in the travel industry while introducing geographical concepts and skills. The goal is to present knowledge that students can apply when traveling with family and friends. (Author/AV)

Using the U.S. Bureau of the Census's National Travel Survey as the primary data source, the exercises described will help high school or college level students develop basic geographic skills, including data interpretation, map construction, and spatial analysis. They will also familiarize students with broad patterns of recreation travel. (RM)

Describes an assignment that immerses students in regional study based on the belief that students' learning is enhanced when they acquire a personal sense of travel in that region. Asks students to research and write narrative travelogues describing vicarious travel in a region. Discusses student reactions and pedagogical outcomes. (DSK)

Describes Project Marco Polo in which students, teachers, and staff from "National Geographic" and the U.S. Navy traveled to Japan. Reports that they studied Japanese culture, oceanography, and natural science while on the trip. Includes excerpts from field journals kept by the participants, photographs of the trip, and a map. (DK)

Describes a 3-week study tour of Egypt and Greece by 15 geography teachers, 15 students, and 5 administrators during summer 1992. Discusses nine processes that were used to provide structure for the trip's events. Concludes that a geography teacher's task is to evoke in students the spirit of the traveler. (CFR)

Historical, psychological, geographical, and economic aspects of the relationship between Canada and the United States are discussed. Suggestions are presented to help American geographers planning to attend the upcoming National Council for Geographic Education conference in Toronto, Canada, enhance their understanding of Canada. (RM)

Describes a summer 1992 study tour of Egypt and Greece by 15 teachers, 15 students, and 5 geography administrators. Focuses on the experiences and attitudes of one eighth-grade student. Asserts that her presentations to student and adult groups have encouraged other students to become more interested in travel and other cultures. (CFR)