Presents a model compiled from discussions of geographers with competitively funded grants about translating and developing geographic ideas. Describes a process in which geographers seek input, develop objectives, and choose an approach for explanation and a medium for delivery. Discusses format, staff, communication, funding proposals, and…

Discusses the development and implementation of a simulation game for a sixth-grade class that used the structure of Thornton Wilder's play, "Our Town," to examine the geographical issues involved in community planning. The land development issue discussed was based on a real-life local concern. (MJP)

Maintains that the release of the National Geography Standards in October 1994 was not a culmination of reform but the beginning of educational improvement in geography. Discusses geographic concepts and the continued role of educational technology in geographic instruction. (CFR)

Argues that geography education lacks empirical data that might inform and underpin decisions about standards setting, curriculum design, materials development, teaching strategies, and assessment procedures. Identifies four needs: (1) a new attitude toward research; (2) baseline studies; (3) a research agenda; and (4) a research clearinghouse.…

Maintains that the study of local wetlands provides an excellent means of integrating environmental studies, global studies, and other curricula into geography instruction. Seven tables list ways that studying wetlands illustrate the six essential elements of the National Geography Standards. Includes a list of 17 learning activities. (MJP)

Reviews a research project in which, using library and computer resources, students compiled a comparison profile of selected physical, social, and economic characteristics of Morocco and California. The students evaluated the relative role of environmental variables in influencing the human geography of the two regions. (MJP)

Presents the results of a field study done on 7 wells providing 37% of the total aquifer production for 4 municipalities in Puerto Rico. Each sampled well showed signs of contamination by heavy metals, nitrate, and semivolatile organic compounds. Although found in low concentrations, current development threatens groundwater quality. (MJP)

Reports the effectiveness of nine in-service summer institutes designed to improve geography instruction. Discusses strengths and weaknesses of the workshops and the institutes' long-term effectiveness. Finds that participants not only made substantive changes in how they taught geography, but also conducted high-level inservice programs. (CFR)

Provides a comprehensive pedagogical framework for incorporating the Geographical Information System (GIS) into college geography courses. Utilizes Berry's Geographic Matrix to develop approaches to teaching, both about GIS, and with GIS. Considers GIS as a collection of marketable skills, enabling technology, and new discipline. Includes tables…

Defines geography as a holistic science that explains variations in the human-environment relationship over the earth's surface. Proposes bridging the gap between the specialized professional approach to geography and practical pedagogical needs. Maintains that geographers should translate their work for nongeographers. (CFR)