Eastern Michigan University researcher gets $1.5M grant

YPSILANTI, Mich. (AP) - A researcher at Eastern Michigan University has received a $1.5 million grant to bring geographic information systems and technology to classrooms throughout the state.

The director of the school's Institute for Geospatial Research and Education, Yichun Xie (yee shwan she), was recently awarded the grant from the National Science Foundation. He will partner with the non-profit corporation Michigan Virtual University to help 120 Michigan teachers implement mapping and analysis applications designed to strengthen abilities in science, technology, engineering and math.

The project, called "GIS/T Resources and Applications for Career Education (GRACE)," will teach skills in fields such as engineering, telecommunications and business to nearly 5,000 students in both rural and urban areas.

It will involve eighth to 12th grade students in Detroit, Flint, Grand Rapids, Saginaw and the Upper Peninsula.