A group-learning approach to academic and transferable skills through an exercise in the global positioning system

An undergraduate tutorial project, based on the utility and application of the global positioning system (GPS) to geographical problems, offers the po tential to develop a wide range of academic and transferable skills. A broa d understanding of the accuracy, precision and limitations of GPS to geogra phical issues is provided. This knowledge is developed though a small-group exercise, encompassing skills such as teamwork, project formulation and de sign, local fieldwork and literature searches. Additionally, the exercise m ay act as a valuable precursor to a more successful undergraduate research project, since the constraints imposed by such a venture, from conception t o conclusion, have been experienced, and the need for flexibility identifie d.