WebGIS Implementation and Effectiveness in Secondary Education Using the Digital Atlas for Schools

Abstract

The Digital Atlas for Schools is an innovative WebGIS development contributing to the use of geospatial information in schools. Based on a story map tool, it creates a geography curriculum constructed on ArcGIS Online. This article discusses the implications of implementing geospatial technologies so that learners can acquire spatial thinking and geographical knowledge, but also develop responsible and active spatial citizenship. Based on the learning progression approach, it presents results showing the effectiveness of this instructional resource, both for secondary school students and for geography teachers in training. The article concludes with a discussion on how results confirm the need for geospatial technologies to be better incorporated into the geography curriculum at secondary schools.