Résumé -Contexte : Les cartes conceptuelles peuvent répondre à des usages multiples en éducation en sciences de la santé, comme stratégie de communication, comme aide à l'apprentissage, comme aide à la planification ou comme soutien à l'évaluation. Mais leur utilisation réelle dans le champ de la formation en sciences de la santé est mal connue. But : Les buts de cette étude exploratoire étaient : de documenter les pratiques actuelles d'utilisation des cartes conceptuelles dans le quotidien des professeurs en sciences de la santé ayant suivi une formation en ce domaine ; d'identifier les conditions perçues comme favorisant ou freinant leur utilisation. Méthodes : La population visée était les professeurs en sciences de la santé ayant suivi une formation sur les cartes conceptuelles dans deux universités qué-bécoises (n = 55). Un questionnaire en ligne a été conçu spécifiquement pour cette étude exploratoire. Une analyse comparative du contenu permettant de faire ressortir les similitudes et différences a été réalisée. Résultats : Plus de trois quart des répondants (n = 26/33) rapportent utiliser les cartes conceptuelles. Leur utilisation est très variée : simple ou complexe, en prestation d'enseignement ou en évaluation, carte créée par le professeur et/ou les étudiants, construite en mode individuel ou collaboratif, en petit ou grand groupe. L'apprentissage signifiant est identifié comme un avantage important des cartes conceptuelles alors que le temps supplémentaire requis est perçu comme un des obstacles à leur utilisation. Conclusion : Les pratiques actuelles d'utilisation des cartes conceptuelles en éducation en sciences de la santé sont diversifiées et les obstacles identifiés apparaissent surmontables, ce qui est prometteur pour l'avenir.Article publié par EDP Sciences The target group included all health science professors who were trained in concept mapping in two Quebec's universities (n = 55). Data were collected using an exploratory on line questionnaire developed specifically for this study. A comparative analysis of the content helped identify similarities and differences. Results: More than three quarters of respondents (n = 26/33) reported using concept maps in one or several courses. Their use varied greatly, from simple to complex, in individual or collaborative mode, in small or large size groups, from teaching strategies to assessments and maps created by teachers or students. Meaningful learning came out as an advantage while the extra time needed proved to be a hurdle. Conclusion: Current concept map practices in health sciences are varied. Hurdles could be overcome, which is promising for the future.

During emergencies the ready availability of information on the location and vulnerability of resources at risk is crucial to a successful response and in preventing or minimizing further environmental impacts. Environment Canada, Atlantic Region, has developed over a number of years a computer based GIS mapping system for managing and analyzing environmental information. This stand-alone user friendly mapping application has recently moved to the web; allowing broader access by federal, provincial and industry partners in the spill response field. Enhancements have been made that facilitate better coordination and exchange of data among partners. It incorporates a unique shoreline classification system which can be viewed in concert with biological, human use and logistical data. It includes a spill logging function to manage situation reports, maps, resource summaries, photographs and trajectory model outputs. The system allows thematic layers to be displayed on either topographic maps or hydrographic charts and possesses links to other sites that allow real-time display of weather and ocean current data useful in a response. With an open architecture concept the web mapping system is readily modified; partners are able to digitize on-line and to update their own databases shared on the system. Mapped data for the northeastern United States is also included in the package to facilitate joint response to trans-boundary pollution incidents. Although this paper will highlight the unique features of the web mapping application for planning and responding to environmental emergencies, other partners are using the system for conducting environmental assessments, inland management projects, or planning for nuclear emergencies around the globe.

Today, the internet has become a key method of communication. Young generations, as well as the wider public, now use smartphones and tablets on a daily basis to find information and gain understanding in different fields. With this as a backdrop, the Center of Documentation, Research and Experimentation on Accidental Water Pollution (Cedre) and Transport Canada naturally decided to pursue their collaboration by developing a website devoted to the issue of chemical pollution at sea. In 2011, a learning guide was released on chemical pollution at sea composed of 2 posters and a booklet. This learning package is intended for 12 to 18-year-olds and their teachers, but also for journalists, those potentially involved in spill response and the general public. This website (www.chemical-pollution.com) is divided into six major sections: an introduction to chemistry and a few examples of its uses; different aspects of shipping, such as the types of ships used and regulations; the main sources of chemical pollution at sea; spill prevention and preparedness; the different response techniques, systematically illustrated with examples of past incidents; the impact on human health, the environment and the economy. This interactive website features a series of original animations. Users can, for instance, discover the organization of a port terminal, view the behavior of different chemicals, and understand techniques used to respond to a spill of bulk cargo. A quiz, with different levels of difficulty, offers users the chance to test their knowledge on this theme. A character named Phosphacola accompanies younger users on a journey to follow a chemical from its extraction to its end use, presenting its transport across the world's oceans and the spill risks to which it may be exposed.