At conferences and exhibits, we regularly have educators come by and ask “where does GIS fit in the curriculum?” Once getting beyond the moment of having that deer in the headlights look on my face and the thought “it fits everywhere,” I get into a rhythm of describing how while the “G” in GIS means it is foundationally geographic, it is integrative and interdisciplinary by nature given the kinds of questions and data people are exploring. My next step is to point directly to the annual ESRI Map Book which is loaded with examples of the kinds of projects and tasks users in numerous careers and settings are tackling—from local community concerns to efforts that seek to sustain the planet. In doing a quick tour of the Map Book with an educator, I point out how these project snapshots demonstrate that not only geography is embedded there but also math, science, technology, social sciences, and communications…to name a few intersecting subject areas.

Having done the above sequence numerous times, it struck me that it might be worthwhile to share this in a different way with a broader audience. So, I have created a short presentation that you can share with students and colleagues: GIS is Integrative, Interdisciplinary: Let Maps Tell the Story. (Download 1MB PDF file.)

The presentation basically asks the viewer to consider the variety of subject matter areas they see in a sampler of Map Book maps, as well as their integrative nature. It also points to a one-period lesson: Exploring Geographic Careers with the ESRI Map Book.

Consider also using this presentation as “starter dough” to make your own version(s). For instance, find a sequence of map images from previous Map Books that help you and your students examine a particular topic or geographic scale or region, such as including a map on Global Soil Regions as part of an exploration on sustainability issues, or a Hawaiian Volcanoes map and story as part of an examination of earth science and geospatial careers.

- George Dailey, ESRI Education Manager