Interactive Story Maps in Education

Maps have been used in history since man believed the earth was flat. Because of the progression of maps, people still use them on a daily basis. Story Maps make the information of a plain, boring map come to life.  Although maps are used in all aspects of life, ESRI has taken it to a whole new level and made maps entertaining for the viewer.
Story Maps  are a fun and engaging way to broaden a student's horizon.  Esri has created and collected a wide variety of maps that students can study to gain knowledge about the world around them.  By looking at these story maps, students are able to think critically by answering the questions how, why, and what.  
Visit the Story Map Gallary to see pre-made maps. Here you can find a map to fit almost any core content.  Instead of telling students about an event or location, why not try showing them or better yet let them experience it themselves with some guidance.
To add another level of engagement and complexity, using the ArcGIS website, students are able to create and personalize their own story maps. From simple to complex, the website has many different styles of interactive maps that people can create. 
The Story Map Tour  seems to be the most popular.  A person can mark the location on the map, add pictures, and create a narrative. They can also add titles, captions, and zoom into the map to pinpoint a location.  The end product looks professional without spending a vast number of hours. 

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Uses:

1.  Adds Depth of Knowledge to Lessons
2. Gives students the Where, How, and What
3. Engages Students
4. Create or view maps made by others

Limitations:

1. Time
2.  ArcGIS account needed 

Links:

http://storymaps.arcgis.com/en/
​Create Story Map Tour
​Story Map Tour Tutorial

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