Teaching Spatial Science Courses in Public Universities in Tanzania: Challenges and Opportunities
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Date
2013-12
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Abstract
Spatial science courses that are Remote Sensing (RS) and Geographic Information System (GIS) are increasingly grow-ing into extremely important disciplines that accommodate various applications in wider sectors of development. Effec-tive teaching and learning of the courses, however, requires intensive investment in facilities and human resources, since the technology is sophisticated and growing fast. This study aims at exploring the challenges of teaching and learning spatial science courses, RS and GIS, particularly in public universities in Tanzania. The study also identifies possible opportunities to improve the situation. Using social survey techniques in data gathering and analysis and au-thor’s own experience, lack of resources, poor background to the courses, delivery methods, limited number of staff and large classes were seen to be the major obstacles in successful learning and teaching. Opportunities exist in using open source resources, collaboration with other institutions within and outside the country and for the universities to give due weight to the courses by building capacity of their staff and procuring facilities, especially laboratories equipments.
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Full text can be accessed at
http://file.scirp.org/pdf/JGIS_2013122409085180.pdf
Keywords
GIS, Remote Sensing, Learning, Obstacles
Citation
Mwita, E.J., 2013. Teaching Spatial Science Courses in Public Universities in Tanzania: Challenges and Opportunities. Journal of Geographic Information System, 5(6), p.543.