Globalis

Globalis - an interactive world map

Resources links and/or class examples How to Use Globalis About Globalis US Statistics

__SWOT Analysis__ Strengths Globalis allows students and teachers access to access interactive maps and manipulate these tools to determine the type and amount of information that best suites their needs. These maps allow for collection, sorting, and analyzing of data for most geographical regions. This site is easy to use.

Weaknesses Although the site is relatively easy to use it is geared mostly towards secondary students and more advanced learners. Some of the icons, descriptive labels, and other terms might be difficult for younger students to understand. With careful guidance from the facilitator, even younger students may benefit from interaction with these maps.

Opportunities These interactive maps offer multiple opportunities for exploration and engagement. Consumers can work together to make a positive difference where they live and/or on the Earth by becoming aware of the statistics related to the maps and where they stand in relation to each statistic. US data, for example, shows cell phone use, transportation use, and a variety of other factors that contribute to our carbon footprints. This data can be internalized by the viewer, and then decisions about ones own lifestyle choices might be made to make a lesser impact on the environment.

Threats While Globalis is a wonderfully interactive tool for learning, it does not appear to allow for publishing of actual statistics by anyone other than a member of the owning organizations. Once the viewer selects the criteria they wish to be included in the makeup of their map, they can then embed the map that they've created into a website or email to others for focus of discussion. This ability makes this tool more like a Web 2.0 tool, and takes it beyond the abilities of a Web 1.0 tool.

Ideas for the classroom Student teams may decide upon the data that helps to support their arguments related to carbon footprint. They may then create the appropriate map to show this data and use this in the creation of a website aimed at encouraging others to make positive changes in regards to their argument.

Another idea for use of this tool is to allow students to do in depth studies of their country, or other counties, create their own maps showing the data that they are presenting, and publishing these maps onto their own project-based web sites. If they are not creating web sites, they might instead post a link to their map within the presentation that they create to share their projects.