The Introductory GIS Workshop for High School Educators is designed for educators with little or no prior experience in Geographic Information Systems (GIS). This hands-on professional learning experience introduces foundational GIS concepts using a supportive,  train-the-trainer  approach aligned with the High School GIS Certificate pathway.

Participants will learn core GIS ideas—such as spatial data, map layers, and basic geographic analysis—through guided instruction, a live software demonstration, and a collaborative mapping activity. Educators will also explore how GIS can strengthen spatial thinking, data literacy, and real-world problem solving across disciplines including social studies, science, environmental studies, mathematics, and career-connected learning.

By the end of the workshop, educators will be prepared to begin integrating GIS into classroom lessons and will understand opportunities for continued support and engagement through the UMSL Geospatial Collaborative.

The Introductory GIS Workshop aims to:

1. Provide educators with a clear, accessible introduction to GIS concepts and vocabulary.
2. Demonstrate how GIS is used in everyday life and real-world decision-making.
3. Introduce ArcGIS Online and classroom-ready geospatial resources for K–12 instruction.
4. Build educator confidence through guided, hands-on mapping activities.
5. Support educators in identifying practical ways to integrate GIS into existing curriculum.
6. Connect GIS learning to regional workforce pathways and sustained professional support.

Session 1 – Explore: Why GIS in K–12? (Approx. 45 minutes)

• What GIS is (in plain language) and why it matters
• Everyday applications (navigation, weather, public health, community planning)
• Discussion: where spatial thinking already shows up in your classroom

Session 2 – Learn: GIS Fundamentals (Approx. 60 minutes)

• Core concepts: spatial data, layers, attributes, and geographic questions
• Pattern interpretation and inquiry-based thinking across disciplines

Session 3 – Demonstrate: Live GIS Walkthrough (Approx. 45 minutes)

• Facilitator-led introduction to ArcGIS Online
• Exploring layers, viewing attribute data, and interpreting map-based information
• Examples of classroom-ready maps, tools, and lesson resources

Break (Optional / As Scheduled) (Approx. 10–15 minutes)

Session 4 – Apply: Hands-On GIS Activity (Approx. 60 minutes)

• Guided, paired mapping activity modeled after an introductory student lesson
• Facilitator support, peer collaboration, and structured prompts to reinforce learning

Session 5 – Plan: Classroom Integration & Next Steps (Approx. 45 minutes)

• Implementation options: single lesson, short unit, or certificate-aligned pathway
• Practical planning discussion: how GIS fits your content area and schedule
• Resources, support network, and continued professional learning opportunities

By the end of the workshop, participants will have:

1. A foundational understanding of GIS concepts and terminology.
2. Hands-on experience using ArcGIS Online to explore and interpret spatial data.
3. Increased confidence to begin integrating GIS into classroom instruction.
4. Practical ideas and next steps for implementing GIS lessons aligned to student learning goals.
5. Awareness of ongoing support and engagement opportunities with the UMSL Geospatial Collaborative.