NSF LogoNSF Award Abstract - #0101806

Collaborative Research/Applied Research: Map and Spatial Skills of Children and Teachers, and How They are Affected by the "Where are We?" Instructional Materials


NSF Org ESI
Latest Amendment Date July 17, 2002
Award Number 0101806
Award Instrument Continuing grant
Program Manager Janice M. Earle
ESI Division of Elementary, Secondary & Informal Education
EHR Directorate for Education & Human Resources
Start Date August 1, 2001
Expires July 31, 2005 (Estimated)
Awarded Amount to Date $238068
Investigator(s) Kim Kastens kastens@ldeo.columbia.edu (Principal Investigator)
Sponsor Columbia University
1210 Amsterdam Avenue; MC 2205
New York, NY 10027 212/854-6851
NSF Program(s) INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS DEVELP,
RESEARCH ON LEARNING & EDUCATI
Field Application(s) 0000099 Other Applications NEC
Program Reference Code(s) SMET,OTHR,9177,0000
Program Element Code(s) 7355,1666

Abstract

The applied research project builds on the IMD funded "Where are We?" and poses the following research questions: Do students perform significantly better on real-world map tasks after using WAW? What specific misconceptions and weaknesses remain widespread among students after using the materials? How much improvement in student performance on map skills tasks would be expected after using the curriculum? How can teachers tell whether student learning has occurred? What is the relationship between teachers' spatial abilities and the likelihood they would use the materials? The project will develop quantitative, reliable field-based assessments of map skills and use them, along with other instruments, with three populations: elementary students using the materials; children over the 7-15 age range who do not uses the materials; and preservice elementary teachers. Results from these assessments will be used in a redesign of the materials.

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