Powerful Geography is a new approach to teaching and learning geography which aims to help students find connections between powerful geographic knowledge and students’ future career goals. It is based on related research in STEM fields, and it hopes to provide teachers with avenues to increase motivation and participation in their geography classrooms. Based upon my doctoral dissertation research, this presentation will highlight findings from a one semester implementation of Powerful Geography in several classrooms across Texas. This project included teachers from three separate high schools and students in on-level, PreAP and AP level high school geography courses. We will discuss teacher and student reactions to different implementation strategies, as well as suggestions and advice from participating teachers for teachers considering this new approach. Lessons, activities, and strategies for implementation will be provided.
Secondary/High School | Engagement, Real-world Connections, STEM | Curriculum and Instruction
San Pedro
Michelle Crane is a geography educator in Texarkana, Texas. She teaches geography, philosophy, sociology and diplomacy at Texas High School. She also sponsors Texas High’s Philosophy Club and Model UN team. She is a professor of geography at Texas A&M University at Texarkana and is currently completing a PhD at Texas State University in Geography Education. She loves to read, travel, cook and discuss philosophy.
