GPS Technology & Geocaching for Educators

INSTRUCTOR(S): Gary A. Krueger, AKA Professor Gizmo, Appleton, WI
GRADE LEVEL: K-12
SUBJECT: Technology

If you love technology and the outdoors, then this is for you!  Educators are using Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) technology to teach every subject area imaginable.  It is used daily everywhere from car navigation to keeping track of your children and pets.

This class will explore the technology behind the GPS system and how participants can add it to their teaching skills and even use it for personal recreation.  This class will explore the "sport" of Geocaching, a high-tech treasure hunting game played throughout the world by adventure seekers equipped with GPS devices.  The basic idea is to locate hidden containers outdoors, called geocaches, and then share your experiences indoors, online.  Information gained from this session can be used in all classrooms to teach anything from mapping, geography, technology and outdoor activities to music, art, history and social studies.  This is also a great way for educators to combine technology and the great outdoors for adventure and relaxation.

As expected, this class will have extensive outdoor exercises utilizing GPS receivers in the finding and hiding of geocahces.  Other GPS technology related topics and equipment such as iPhones/iPods, cell phones and PDA devices may be explored.

It is not required but HIGHLY recommended that participants have use of a GPS receiver for the week.  This is sheer fun!

Wisconsin State Teacher Standards Addressed: 1,4,6,9,10
Wisconsin Model Academic Standards Addressed: Information Technology A,D