Students learn GPS technology through geocaching

Max Cook learned about maps in first grade by using a two dimensional image. The sixth-grader learned about latitude and longitude this week with the help of a Global Positioning System, a Palm Pilot and a game called “geocache.”

The high-tech lesson was part of the summer lesson program techno mania, taught through the Olathe school district’s summer curriculum.

Cook, a self-titled “geocacher” since age 4, is matter-of-fact when he explains his enjoyment for the more interactive lesson.

“Well, it’s like a treasure hunt,” Cook said. “It’s a lot more fun looking in your backyard. More challenging.”

Geocache participants use GPS technology to locate containers and treasures left by other geocachers. The treasures—often trinkets or written messages, called caches, are usually kept in waterproof containers for the treasure hunter to take.

Many caches are registered on Web sites, which are the beginning points for participants to start the search of a cache.

They use latitudinal and longitudinal instruction to find each cache.

Last week’s science, technology and teamwork skills were taught by Janis Davis, technology instructional resource teacher. She specifically revamped the curriculum to be more hands-on, she said.

“When you learn latitude and longitude as a flat thing in a book kids don’t always pick up on it,” Davis said. “Taking them outside and geocaching helps them put it together.”

Since implementing this curriculum in classes, Davis said, parents have informed her they will geocache with their children for a fun alternative to summer vacation.

“It’s fun because you start out with knowing nothing and then find something,” Davis said.

The students used GoogleEarth, a free downloadable map software, to learn about their school’s geographic location. Then this week they searched for caches in their school’s backyard.

Cook said his mom used to hide toys in his backyard and offer her GPS for a geocaching activity. He worked with his friend Diego on Wednesday to find bones in the body to put together a paper skeleton.

He enjoys it so much, he said he hopes geocaching becomes a professional opportunity from the United States Government.

“You’d get to work for the government and have fun if they set geocaches around America,” Cook said. “You could go caching stuff and get money for bringing it back. It’s fun and exciting.”

Geocaching began in 2000 and there are caches located on every continent of the world, Davis said. She and other instructors are working to implement the hands-on activity in schools throughout the district for the school year.

For more information on the techno mania geochaching project visit the summer school class project website: http://teachers.olatheschools.com/podcasts/jdavisirc/345