Creating an Interactive Web Map

Abstract

Service-learning is a form of experiential learning that integrates curriculum objectives to address needs in the community. It also provides students with an opportunity to apply geospatial technology concepts in a real-world setting. This paper describes a service-learning project requiring students to create an interactive Google Map depicting historic buildings and artwork for the City of Wayne, Nebraska. Students create maps by using handheld GPS receivers and editing HTML and JavaScript. The objectives of this project align with several building blocks and critical work functions in the Geospatial Technology Competency Model (GTCM). This model, developed in 2010 by the U.S. Department of Labor, attempts to identify the knowledge and abilities needed in the geospatial industry workforce. In addition the methods, assessment, and challenges for developing and executing this project are described.