Temperature variations across space and time: making statistics fun with geographic information and spatial analysis

Statistics can be daunting and eye-glazing for many students. By coupling statistics with geographic information science, students are able to learn quantitative methods while at the same time learning about the environment. Can learning about the real world using geography make statistics more fun? Using temperature, a topic we are all familiar with, with a group-based project-based learning approach, students were able to develop statistical, data handling and analytical skills while also learning about GIScience and the environment. In this paper, a five-part group-based project approach is presented that integrates geographic information science concepts with statistics centered around analyzing temperature in the environment. Students designed the sampling approach, collected, recorded, and integrated data before analyzing it spatially and temporally. Students found temperature variations across the study area including a heat island effect. Overall students found the project fun and were able to successfully complete the project. Future improvements include refining the project description and instructions. The project-based approach presented here is applicable across many disciplines. The topic is also applicable in any geographic region since temperatures are readily available everywhere. Students learn something about the world where they live but also develop essential skills useful for a geo-enabled society.