8th International Conference on Cartography and GIS: Fun With Maps-Road Map Towards Implementing A Learner-Centred Cartographic Training In Kenya.

Abstract

The importance of maps as tools providing location-related solutions, supporting spatial behavior, enabling spatial querying, or providing information about space cannot be overstated. In Kenya, cartography is taught at the tertiary education level where thorough instructions on cartographic tools are impacted. However, inculcating the cartographic skills at the earliest primary education level is known to create a greater impact on the learners’ interests in mapping. This project aimed at formulating a framework to best aid in the successful incorporation of mapping activities into the country’s Competency Based Curriculum education system. The various framework activities were formulated through interactions and discussions with learners and teachers from eight primary schools in Mweiga, Nyeri County, Kenya. The activities were later tested on the learners. From the results, commendable interest in maps in children aged 4 – 10 years was observed with some activities being more successful than others. Future works envisages to incorporate more schools into cartographic mapping activities.