The Digital Geography Lab at Salem State University

Abstract

Established in 1983, the Digital Geography Lab (DGL) at Salem State University (SSU) is one of the oldest higher-education digital spatial labs. This paper details the evolution of the DGL as well as its current status as one of the best computer labs at Salem State University. This paper describes the changing technology of the DGL over the past 28 years. The DGL not only provides SSU students with cutting edge geospatial technology, but it is a research lab for faculty and is extensively used in community outreach programs. The DGL is being used more and more by other departments such as Geology, Criminal Justice, Computer Science and Inter-disciplinary Studies which reflects the expansion of the geo-spatial sciences beyond geography. The success of the DGL lies in part with the University’s management of the facility where major decisions are made in consultation with the Department and DGL staff. The configuration and technology of the DGL has changed considerably through the years, reflecting the transformations in technology and educational philosophies, but the core mission of the DGL has not, which is to serve the students, faculty and the local community with cutting edge geospatial technology.