Abstract:

The Story Map is a compilation of maps, texts, images and occasionally videos that tell a persuasive story using a web app. The Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI) has a gallery on their website that displays some of the most creative maps, on various topics. The story map is commonly used as a presentation tool and does not have analytical functions. Typically, users create a story map to recount a historical event, narrate the importance of a place, and visualize trends and patterns of events that occur within the perspective of a certain geography. The author has integrated Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in an elementary science methods course, and uses the story map app as a tool to support the teaching a learning of a science concept/topic. In this paper, the author describes how to create a story map that depicts the volcanoes and earthquakes in the ‘Ring of Fire’ including information of their impact on communities in their vicinity. Users can choose the most appropriate template for their narration by accessing the Esri Story Map application at https://storymaps.arcgis.com/en/. The Story Map Tour template is suited for the presentation of photographs or videos that have labels with captions, and are linked to an interactive map. This template is most suitable for a sequence of events or places that have a certain order of visitation. The Story Map Swipe and Spy Glass is used to present two maps or two layers in a map representing different patterns or change with time. The Story Map Cascade enables a visual narration on a full screen that resembles the cascading waters of a waterfall. The Story Map Journal is organized with a side panel and bullets that presents in-depth information as you scroll down. For the advanced learner, there are other customized templates including a customized story map that can be developed for special projects.

Keywords:

Story Maps, Volcanoes, Earthquakes, Ring of fire.