Peculiarities of using geographic information systems in the process of forming ecological consciousness of elementary school−aged children

Abstract

The relevance of the issue of the use of geographic information technologies in primary school is related to the development of effective pedagogical approaches that contribute to the successful education of students.  It has been established that the use of tools and technologies, namely geographic information systems (GIS), can greatly facilitate the development of students' spatial thinking. The skills they acquire through the use of GIS will help students better understand spatial interconnections. Geographic information technologies contribute to students' spatial thinking, which is a necessity in the modern world, where scientific and technological literacy play a key role.

It has been found that learning through solving problems based on geographic information technologies helps students to apply skills in practice, which has a positive effect on learning and engagement. Teachers can use online platforms to help present information about different subjects from different areas of study. In addition, these online mapping tools for creating interactive assignments and projects for students can teach them how to work with new technologies, organize information from different sources in a compelling visual format, and present different types of written information along with geovisualizations in a format different from traditional written research papers. An overview of mapping platforms and virtual globes that are appropriate for use in primary school is provided.

Web resources and programs that can be used during the lessons of the integrated course "I Explore the World" are proposed and a methodology for their use with the introduction of methodological solutions is developed, which is a useful didactic material for primary school teachers in preparation for the lesson "I Explore the World" in the content line "Man and Nature".