GIS helps prepare students for emergencies: Louisiana is using Geographic Information Systems in K-12 Classrooms to provide authentic project-based learning

Subject: Science and social studies

Grades: K-12 (Ages: 5-18)

Technology: GIS, GP Web

Standards: NETS*S3; NETS*TII, III; NETS*A II (http://www.iste.org/ standards/)

learners in Louisiana are solving real-world question at issues and they're excited about doing it thanks to an innovative educational program called "Quest with GIS: A Louisiana K-12 Classroom Experience."

The vexed questions students are solving relate to disaster preparedness, an unfortunate reality in many parts of the hurricane-prone state. While their compeers nationwide may bc learning about pinch planning for the first time because of Homeland Security measures, many Louisiana