While I frequently write about educational technology, I also recognize that it is quite possible to describe activities I have not actually performed myself. Geocaching is an example. I know that it represents an application of GPS and I have used a GPS device, but I have never actually located a cache. Today I had my chance.
Monte Gaukler, a tech buddy of my wife, presented on geocaching. She has worked with the activity in middle school, but has also become interested in geocaching as a family activity.
The training exercise was ingenious and was conducted within the area surrounding the conference site. 1) Hide a numbered golf ball and determine the coordinates with a gps. 2) Exchange GPSs among members of the group. 3) Use the coordinates to locate the appropriately numbered ball.
It was a very effective training technique – this old dog learned a new trick.
The conference also provided an opportunity to promote the University’s instructional design program. The University of North Dakota has a fledgling program in this area and it was a great opportunity to meet teachers and tell them about the program.
Program Director Richard Van Eck and student
