Teaching earth and social science in higher education using computers: bad practice, poor prospects?

The basic premise of this chapter is that practical GIS (geographical information system) teaching should be an important part of higher education syllabuses in all branches of earth science and many branches of social science. Unfortunately, current practice falls woefully short of expected and easily achievable standards. It is also suggested that earth and social science studies should be exposed to the basic principles of computers and information technology (IT) simply because of their importance in contemporary science and society. An understanding of mathematical, statistical and computer concepts and techniques is today unquestionably an important part of scientists' education and training. Although a comparatively new field, GIS is rapidly becoming accepted as an addition to this list. With few exceptions, these subjects are universally disliked and avoided by teachers and students alike. This paper explores the reasons behind this distaste and offers some suggestions about how GIS can improve the situation. -from Author