Chris Bunin (’95 B.A. history, ’98 M.A.Ed. curriculum and instruction, ’01 M.S. geography), a social studies teacher for more than 20 years, emphasizes skills that students need to become critical and responsible problem solvers. By focusing on an authentic problem, students conduct research to acquire and evaluate data and information, conduct analyses, and make decisions based on their findings. Bunin uses Geographic Information System (GIS) and other geospatial technologies in the classroom to bring challenging concepts and skills to life.

His interest and passion led him to co-author the textbook “GIS for Teachers: A Guide to Authentic K-12 Integration and Application,” which guides teachers through the use of GIS in K-12 classrooms in multiple settings and disciplines. “Geospatial technologies represent a leading-edge technology and high-demand skill set,” Bunin said. “GIS allows teachers to bring challenging concepts and skills to life using a fun and engaging tool. Introducing GIS to students as early as elementary school provides experiences and opportunities that transform how information is presented, processed, and delivered.”

Bunin, who teaches at Albemarle High School in Charlottesville, is also an adjunct associate professor at Piedmont Virginia Community College, teaches courses at Blue Ridge Community College, and is affiliated with the Virginia Geographic Alliance. Among his many awards, he received the National Council for Geographic Education’s 2017 Brunn Creativity Award for Outstanding Teaching of Geography and 2014 Geographic Excellence in Media Award. The National Council for the Social Studies granted him the 2016 Outstanding Secondary Social Studies Teacher of the Year and the 2015 Grant for the Enhancement of Geographic Literacy.

Textbook: G I S for Teachers. A Guide to Authentic K through 12 Integration and Application. Ideal for Pre-service and Practicing Teachers. By Christopher Bunin, Christine Esposito, Barbaree Ash Duke, and Anita Palmer.

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