Who can help me use GIS in the classroom?

The following sources may be of assistance when starting your new GIS project

Contacts at North Carolina State University

• Marsha Alibrandi, Associate Professor Social Studies Education , North Carolina State University, Department of Curriculum and Instruction

• Shannon White, Doctoral Student, North Carolina State University, Department of Curriculum and Instruction

Partnerships in Your Community

Often it is helpful to create partnerships with either local government, business, or other organizations. Partnerships with outside agencies can be a source of information, resources, and expertise.

• The Urban Regional Information Systems Association (URISA) is a non-profit, national organization that is an association of government information technology management professionals and others interested in applying information technology in public agencies. (North Carolina has an active URISA Chapter with statewide membership that has an interest in helping local teachers.)

• Many colleges and universities have GIS departments or GIS courses and workshops offered for educators. The University Consortium for Geographic Information Sciences is an organization that many of the colleges and universities belong to.

• National Geographic has organized Geographic Alliances in many states. This is a wonderful resource for teachers.

• Many local governments have offices dedicated to GIS data collection, distribution, and creation. Check with your local county, town, or city website. Most states also have a clearing house for geographic data. The Federal Geospatial Clearinghouse is also a source for GIS data and GIS agencies.

Additional Internet Resources are available.