Vol. 36, No. 2, Fall 1998- "Education"

THE FRAMEWORK OF THE STANDARDS: A HISTORY OF AMERICAN GEOGRAPHY EDUCATION

(pp. 2 - 17)

Douglas A. Hurt

Department of Geography

University of Oklahoma

Norman, Oklahoma

Abstract

The history of American geography education can be divided into four eras: the early development of geography and geography education, William Pattison's four traditions, the five fundamental themes, and the eighteen content standards in Geography for Life. Although past efforts at reform have not always had a lasting impact upon the educational community, by appreciating the past milestones in American geography education, an understanding of the current content standards can be gained This knowledge can then be used to promote geography and geography education during the current era, in order to ensure that a vital geography will be included in the curriculum of future generations of American students. Key to this success will be the acceptance of the voluntary content standards by local school districts, improved teacher education and training, and the continued coordination of geography educators—at all levels of American education.

CHANGING GEOGRAPHIC REALITIES AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR GEOGRAPHIC EDUCATION

(pp. 18 - 38)

Burton 0. Witthuhn

Office of the Provost

Western Illinois University

Abstract

Technology enhancements are redefining the interconnection of locations and the spatial realities of human occupance. The challenge for geography is to help students understand the new world of instantaneous connection and complex spatial reality.

THE EFFECTS OF THE INTERNET ON ECONOMIC GEOGRAPHY: A CASE STUDY OF SHIPPENSBURG, PENNSYLVANIA

(pp. 39 - 60)

John Benham

Jennifer Hoover

Department of Geography-Earth Science

Shippensburg University

Shippensburg, Pennsylvania

Abstract

During the 1980's, a technological innovation brought new expansion to the economy. Growth came from the sector that uses and creates knowledge products and the mechanism supporting the sector was the Internet. Many urban-rural studies and policies have neglected the impact of telecommunications on the physical and social structure of regions. In particular, this study looked at Shippensburg, Pennsylvania and how the Internet has influenced a small rural community's businesses. Studies have shown the Cumberland Valley transportation links have aided in making this region a geographic center for the entire eastern United States. As electronic commerce becomes a reality, location and access to resources will be reduced in importance compared to telecommunications and global communications and servicing networks.

SOIL VARIABILITY ACROSS A TOPOGRAPHIC GRADIENT IN COLLUVIAL SOIL OF SOUTH-CENTRAL PENNSYLVANIA

(pp. 61 - 78)

Kevin J. Starner

Christopher J. Woltemade

William L. Blewett

Geography and Earth Science Department

Shippensburg University

Shippensburg, Pennsylvania

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between soil characteristics and topography in colluvial soil near Mainsville, Pennsylvania. Numerous studies have shown that local topography can have a profound impact on pedogenesis by controlling the age, origin and characteristics of parent materials, as well as the effective precipitation and drainage of particular sites. To determine the impact of topography on the development of soils at our field site, we excavated three soil pits across a topographic gradient: one on the upland, one on the slope and one on the floodplain at the base of the slope. Soil profiles were described in the field and multiple samples were collected for laboratory analysis. To detect soil variation among the sites, we analyzed horizon classification, horizon thickness, texture, consistence, bulk density, particle density, percent organic matter and percent coarse fragments. Data analysis indicates marked, topographically controlled, microscale variation in the soils that is not indicated in the Franklin County Soil Survey. This variation has direct implications for agricultural management of soils and nutrients. 

A MODEL FOR SIMULATING THE PATTERN OF ASH FALL FROM VOLCANIC ERUPTIONS

(pp. 79 - 92)

Joseph W. Bencloski

Department of Geography and Regional Planning

Indiana University of Pennsylvania

Indiana, Pennsylvania

Abstract

The design and use of a simple probability model for simulating the spatial pattern of ash fall from a hypothetical volcanic eruption is presented. The model takes the form of a multiple cell grid, each cell containing a range of numbers representing the probability that it will receive ash fall from a volcano located in the center cell. The simulation is run by selecting random numbers from a table, followed by the drafting of an isopach map of the spatial pattern of ash fall. The model is designed for use in introductory college physical geography or geology courses to examine the factors that affect volcanic ash falls.

TURKEY NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT PLANNING IN FRANKLIN COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA

(pp. 93 - 111)

Meredith Santee

Stephanie Fleck

Shippensburg University

Shippensburg, Pennsylvania

Abstract

In the last five years, the issue of nutrient management planning related to concentrated agricultural operations has become increasingly important in Pennsylvania. In 1993, the state legislature passed the Nutrient Management Act outlining the procedures for concentrated agricultural operations relevant to environmental compliance. This Act was passed to protect valuable natural resources such as the Chesapeake Bay. In Franklin County the number of turkey farms has more than doubled. Wampler-Longacre, Inc., a local turkey processing plant, has provided the capital impetus to enable local farmers to move into turkey farming. The rapid increase in turkey farms has caused nutrient management planning to become an important issue in Franklin County. This article will examine the Nutrient Management Act and its impact on local planning in Franklin County, Pennsylvania.