Abstract
Abstract. Critical human capacity in Geographic Information Science (GISc) is developed at the Botswana International University of Science and Technology, a specialized, research university. Strategies employed include GISc courses offered each semester to students from various programs, the conduct of field-based projects, enrolment in online courses, geo-spatial initiatives with external partners, and final year research projects utilizing geospatial technologies. A review is made of available GISc courses embedded in the Bachelor of Science Environmental Science program. GISc courses are incorporated in three Bachelor degree programs as distinct courses. Geospatial technologies are employed in several other courses. Student researches apply GIS and Remote Sensing methods to environmental and geological themes. The overarching goals are to equip students in various disciplines to utilize geospatial technologies, and enhance their spatial thinking and reasoning skills.
Highlights
Geospatial information and technologies are increasingly adopted in various fields
An examination of available educational and training programs in higher education reveals that Geographic Information Science (GISc) courses are either focused on teaching about or teaching with geographic information and technologies
At BIUST, research is intended to be an integral part of student learning that feeds into training and education as well as service to the community
Summary
Geospatial information and technologies are increasingly adopted in various fields. The possession of spatial thinking and reasoning skills is critical as such skills are integral to everyday life. Durr and Gatrell (2004) edited a volume on the application of GIS and spatial analysis in veterinary science This widespread adoption of geospatial technologies increases the demand for geospatially skilled personnel (Ramli et al 2010). An examination of available educational and training programs in higher education reveals that GISc courses are either focused on teaching about or teaching with geographic information and technologies. Most of these courses are offered as part of undergraduate or postgraduate programs in various fields (Akinyemi 2012, Eksteen et al 2015). The study contributes to ongoing efforts assessing the availability of GISc courses in developing countries
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