Effect of Geographical Information System and digital mapping tools on O'level map work performance. A Case study of Great Stride College, Harare
- Author
- Gambiza, Kuziva E.
- Title
- Effect of Geographical Information System and digital mapping tools on O'level map work performance. A Case study of Great Stride College, Harare
- Abstract
- This study investigated the impact of Geographical Information System (GIS) and digital mapping tools on O level learner’s performance in map work at Great Stride College, Harare. It addressed the growing need for technological integration in geography education. Employing a mixed-methods research design, the study collected both qualitative and quantitative data through questionnaires administered to 15 O level students and semi-structured interviews conducted with 4 geography teachers. The research aimed to assess the practical utility of GIS tools in developing learner’s ability to apply geographical concepts, analyse infrastructural and curricular challenges in GIS implementation, and examine the relationship between GIS proficiency and map work assessment performance. Data analysis, conducted using Microsoft Excel, generated visual representations including tables, pie charts and bar graphs to identify patterns and relationships. The findings revealed infrastructure and resource deficiencies at Great Stride College, with limited access to digital mapping tools effective implementation of technology-enhanced geography instruction. Statistical analysis demonstrated a positive correlation between students GIS proficiency and their performance in map work assessments, with students who received GIS-integrated instruction showing an improvement in spatial analysis tasks compared to traditional methods. Based on these findings, the study recommends that school administrators prioritize investment in digital mapping infrastructure, curriculum developers integrate GIS components systematically into the O level geography syllabus, and teachers receive specialized training in digital geography tools. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on educational technology integration in secondary geography education and provides practical insights for improving spatial literacy among O level learners in Zimbabwe.
- Date
- 2025
- Publisher
- BUSE
- Keywords
- Geographical Information System
- Digital mapping tools
- Ordinary level
- Map work
- Supervisor
- Dr. Dziva
- Item sets
- Faculty of Science Education
- Media
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Gambiza, Kuziva E..pdf