Describes the project "Step Up to Geography in Distance Learning," a model distance-learning-based graduate program in geography that integrates the collaborative approach with a multi-layered system of instructional technologies, such as the Internet, video conferencing, print materials, and pre-packaged cassette tapes. (CMK)

A resurgence of interest in geography education has resulted from factors like public disenchantment with education, a commitment by professional geographic organizations to promote geography teaching, and a growing sense of U.S. interdependence with other countries. The new view of geography instruction requires a broader, more analytical, and…

Suggests that cultivating U.S. sensitivity and knowledge about the world are the tasks of geographers. Reminds teachers not to ignore the newspaper as a source of information about world geography. Concludes that newspapers can help students develop an appreciation of how geography contributes to world events. Proposes teaching strategies. (SG)

Case study of how a 10th-grade New York State global-history teacher attempts to understand one of several messages broadcast by the new state curriculum and assessment policies, namely that state policies promote ambitious teaching and learning. Finds that while the teacher altered her teaching, she did so in ways that did not comport with the…

This curriculum guide for sixth-grade social studies in Seminole County Florida school district features the curriculums of various world culture courses as well as minimum student performance standards and objectives. The contents are as follows: Florida Department of Education world cultures curriculum frameworks (basic, average, advanced); free…

This examination of the status of geography in U.S. junior colleges begins with a consideration of the role of two-year colleges in higher education, and an appraisal of the place of geography in the context of general education. Results of a broad survey including number of instructors, courses, enrollment, etc. are followed by a detailed…

This description of the development of a courseware package for teaching international issues to secondary school students discusses components of the package, including databases, spreadsheets, a text, a teacher guide, tests, worksheets, and lesson plans. The steps involved in using one of the lessons are outlined as an example. (CLB)

This collection of lessons about the geography, languages, and social issues of several African countries is intended for use with students in grades 6-12. The collection contains five lesson plans: (1) "Africa Physically" (Mark Stahl); (2) "Comparisons of Education in Burkina Faso, Kenya, and Oklahoma" (Rita Geiger) (Handout…

This collection of lessons about the geography, languages, and social issues of several Latin American countries is intended for use with students in grades 6-12. The collection contains five lesson plans: (1) "Cold in the Tropics?" (Marilyn Kesler); (2) "Going beyond the Map: Comparing Geographic Characteristics and Related Social…

These unit lessons are designed to supplement a study of India. The lessons provide enrichment activities in history, mythology and religion, social customs, and demographics. Though originally designed for ninth-grade world geography students, the lessons are appropriate for use in grades 6-12 by students with a variety of skill levels and…

This teacher's guide and student guides on world geography skills and regions are part of a series of supplementary curriculum packages of alternative methods and activities designed to meet the needs of Florida secondary students with mild disabilities or other special learning needs. Content is based on the Florida Curriculum Frameworks and…

Examines the impact of nationalism on six leading secondary level U.S. world geography textbooks. Specific examples of nationalistic bias are cited. Particular emphasis is given to the parallel between changes in American foreign policy and the focus of textbooks published over several decades. (AM)

Real-life expeditions to several regions of the world, offered online by GlobaLearn, Inc., provide social and cultural connections, along with curricular materials that help teachers engage students in active inquiry. Through the eyes of real explorers making actual expeditions, students can discover and become familiar with people and places…

Proposes a new role for middle school teachers in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. This role involves reexamination of curriculum content in world cultures, geography, history, and comparative religions to give students a fuller idea of their place in the world and the concepts of justice and fairness as practiced in the…

Offers the reflections of a teacher who is retiring in the year 2015 after a 40 year teaching career. Focuses on the role technology had on the changes she experienced as a teacher. Discusses different forms of technology, such as visualization software and Geographic Information Systems, and the role of a teacher. (CMK)