In early 2001, the National Research Council (part of the National Academies) began a research project on the use of GIS in K-12 education. The report, due in fall 2005, makes a clear statement promoting spatial thinking across the U.S. K-12 education system: "The ultimate goal should be to foster a new generation of spatially literate students who have the habit of mind of thinking spatially. There should be a national commitment to the systematic educational efforts necessary to meet the goal of spatial literacy."

Five follow-up recommendations in the report offer strategies through which GIS can play a powerful role in the process. With many states, districts, schools, and teachers focusing on specific content assessed via easily scored high stakes testing, the report's emphasis on scientific thinking and spatial analysis is all the more important. GIS users who believe that geospatial technology can play a key role in helping students develop background knowledge, critical thinking skills, a disposition to learn, and valuable workforce experience should make sure local educators know about the report.

When released, the report can be ordered from the National Academies Press at books.nap.edu/catalog/11019.html.