Developing a QGIS plugin to support and encourage the use of GIS in UK schools

Abstract

Despite the introduction of GIS into the UK curriculum, there are formidable barriers to its implementation in the classroom such as cost and complexity of software as well as a lack of resources. Using a user-centred design (UCD) and agile approach a QGIS plugin was developed in an attempt to overcome these barriers. To ensure that the product would be as appropriate and fit for purpose as possible, users were consulted throughout the course of the project. Evaluation of the plugin found that it was both school appropriate and enjoyable to use and, subject to some improvement, could be used effectively to introduce GIS to secondary school geography pupils.