KS3-5: Why new technologies need computers/AI to understand maps and places

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Suitable for 11-18-year olds (secondary and high schools, and college), this article and accompanying activity sheet can be used in the classroom, geography/STEM clubs and at home.

This resource links to KS3, KS4 and KS5 human geography, It is also internationally relevant.

It can also be used as a careers resource and links to Gatsby Benchmarks:
Gatsby Benchmark 2: Learning from career and labour market information
Gatsby Benchmark 4: Linking curriculum learning to careers

The article explains what geomatics is and the difference between how humans and computers understand maps and places. There is also an interview with geomatics researcher Dr Stephan Winter, who talks about his career path and opportunities in geomatics - the collection, analysis and use of geographic information.

The activity sheet includes discussion points - seven questions the students can answer in groups or individually. There are also links to educational activities such as the National Geographic MapMaker Interactive.

This resource was first published on Futurum Careers, a free online resource and magazine aimed at encouraging 14-19-year-olds worldwide to pursue careers in science, tech, engineering, maths, medicine (STEM) and social sciences, humanities and the arts for people and the economy (SHAPE).

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