MEMOR ANDUM

TO:
FROM:
SUBJECT:
DATE:

DR. DIANE CARTER

MICHAEL FOUSHEE
PROPOSAL FOR PORTFOLIO TOPIC
FEBRUARY 14, 2016

I propose to devote my portfolio to the topic of geographic education in the state of

Idaho.
Geographic knowledge is important in our modern world. Adults and children alike can
benefit from better understanding the world through maps and geography. Rapidly
advancing technology such as GIS (Geographic Information Systems) and satellitebased systems are at the forefront of business, political, and environmental decisions
across the globe. A better knowledge of geographic information will ensure that
America's children and workforce are well-equipped for the future. I am passionate
about this topic because of my own experience as a geographer in professional and
academic settings.
Geographic proficiency has been lacking in our country for many years. This is partly
due to a deficiency of adequate education and the tools for people to learn about
geography (Downs et. al., 1988). Limited opportunities exist for children to receive
continuing geographic education in Idaho.

Only 21% of U.S. 4th graders, 27% of 8th graders, and 20% of 12th graders were
geographically proficient, according to a 2010 U.S. Department of Education
assessment (NCES, 2011).

The average adult ages 18-24 correctly answered only 54% of the basic
geographic questions on a 2006 survey conducted by National Geographic and
Roper (National Geographic, 2006).

Geography is only offered as a specific class in grades 6-9 in the state of Idaho
(Idaho, 2009).

Some efforts exist to further geographic education in the United States. The National
Geographic Society currently funds the Network of Alliances for Geographic Education
in all 50 states (National Geographic, 2012). The Idaho Geographic Education and
Outreach website, however, is underwhelming and has not been updated since 2013.
The website was only active during the years 2012-2013 (IGEO, 2016). This points to a

need for better funding and commitment to continued geographic education in the state
of Idaho.
Creating programs dedicated to geographic education and technology will help our
children develop a better understanding and appreciation of the world. Public and
private funding of these programs will ensure they last more than just 1 or 2 years.
Additional funding may also increase adult interest in geographic education, due to
financial investment in the issue. Better geographic knowledge benefits everyone,
regardless of age, career, or circumstance.
Future exploration of this topic is very feasible due to readily available study and survey
data for demographics and education in the United States. Funding opportunities may
also be available through organizations such as The National Geographic Society.

Works Cited:
Downs, R. M., Liben, L. S., & Daggs, D. G. (1988). On Education and Geographers:
The Role of Cognitive Developmental Theory in Geographic Education. Annals of the
Association of American Geographers, 78(4), 680-700.
Idaho State Department of Education. (2009, August 20). IDAHO CONTENT
STANDARDS GRADE 6-9 GEOGRAPHY-EASTERN HEMISPHERE. Retrieved from
http://sde.idaho.gov/academic/shared/social-studies/content-by-grade/GeographyEastern-Hemisphere-Content-Standards-Grades-6-9.pdf
Idaho State Department of Education. (2009, August 20). IDAHO CONTENT
STANDARDS GRADE 6-9 GEOGRAPHY-WESTERN HEMISPHERE. Retrieved from
http://sde.idaho.gov/academic/shared/social-studies/content-by-grade/GeographyWestern-Hemisphere-Content-Standards-Grades-6-9.pdf
IGEO (Idaho Geographic Education and Outreach). (n.d.). Retrieved February 11, 2016,
from https://idahogeographicalliance.wordpress.com/
The National Geographic Education Foundation, & Roper Public Affairs. (2006, May).
2006 Geographic Literacy Study. Retrieved from
http://www.nationalgeographic.com/roper2006/pdf/FINALReport2006GeogLitsurvey.pdf
The National Geographic Network of Geography Education Alliances. (2012). Retrieved
February 10, 2016, from http://alliances.nationalgeographic.com/index.php
NCES (National Center for Education Statistics). (2011). The Nations Report Card:
Geography 2010 (NCES 2011467). Institute of Education Sciences, U.S. Department
of Education. Retrieved from
http://nces.ed.gov/nationsreportcard/pdf/main2010/2011467.pdf