James Dunn

Contact Information

Education

PhD, University of Colorado - Boulder, Geography
MA, University of Colorado - Boulder, Geography
BA, University of Colorado - Boulder, Geography
Dip.Ed., University of Colorado - Boulder

Professional/Academic Experience

Dr. Dunn studied electrical engineering and music theory before turning to geography for a B.A. and a Diploma in Education from CU Boulder. After a short stint teaching middle school for Boulder Valley, Dr. Dunn went on to earn his M.A. and Ph.D. in geography from CU under the guidance of A. David Hill, a noted specialist in geography education. Dr. Dunn designed and led river field trips since the mid 1980s, beginning in the Canadian Arctic and most recently along Colorado’s western rivers. His research interests include geography education, invasive species, and northern regions. He has taught courses about the world, North America, physical and natural systems, field methods, and the environment.

Research/Areas of Interest

Teaching Interests

Geography education, biogeography of northern regions, arctic region, Canada, plant invasions

Research Interests

Geography education is my specialty, with a research agenda that aims to assess how institutions use geography standards and assessments to improve P-12 education. I study variables that influence student knowledge such as K-12 teacher knowledge and practice, institutional support of geography, and public policy. My interests also include professional development of teachers, both at the pre-service and in-service levels, and developing programs that improve geography education.

Secondary interests include the perception of geography by high school students who are choosing university majors. I will also continue research into western Colorado plant invasions and reaction to invasion mitigation using tree ring analysis, transpiration measurements, and stream-flow data.

Publications/Creative Works

Dunn, J. (2012). Geography of North America: Activities for Large Classes, 2nd Edition. Dubuque, Iowa: Kendall Hunt.

Dunn, J. (2011). Location Knowledge: Assessment, Spatial Thinking, and New National Geography Standards. Journal of Geography, 110(2), 81-89.

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