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Geo-Inquiry: Case Studies
Geo-Inquiry: Case Studies
The Geo-Inquiry Process relies on using a geographic perspective, offering a unique lens to analyze space, place and the interconnections between both the human and natural world. In these case studies, National Geographic Explorers exemplify the skills and mindset behind the Geo-Inquiry process.
Grades
6 - 11
Subjects
Geography, Biology, Conservation, Anthropology
C
Case Study: Ocean Ecosystem
National Geographic Explorer Enric Sala wanted to find a way to defend the world’s oceans, so he left his job and partnered with National Geographic to create the Pristine Seas project. Read this case study to learn about how Enric Sala's questions guide his data collection, analysis and actions.
Case Study: Protecting Human History
A pioneer in space archeology, National Geographic Explorer Sarah Parcak uses images taken by low-orbit satellites to pinpoint the locations of buried archeological sites in Egypt. She shares her data with the Egyptian government to identify sites that are at risk of looting. Find out how Sarah and her team ask questions to guide their efforts to protect human history.
Case Study: Dedicated to Conservation
National Geographic Explorers Margaret "Mardy" Murie and Olaus Murie are a married couple with a long-time passion for doglsedding and the Alaskan wilderness. The Muries have made a lifelong commitment to protecting the vast expanses of undisturbed land that large mammals, such as elk and caribou, need to survive. They demonstrate the aptitudes of Geo-Inquiry in their work.
Case Study: Elk Migration in Yellowstone
Large mammals can teach us key lessons in how to balance development with the preservation of natural places. National Geographic Explorer Arthur Middleton is a wildlife ecologist who uses GPS tracking data to track elk migration in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Learn more about elk migration and the importance of Yellowstone elk herds in this Geo-Inquiry case study.
Case Study: Visualizing Pronghorn Migration
Pronghorn are hoofed mammals similar to antelope. They are the fastest land mammals in North America. National Geographic Explorer Joe Riis is a wildlife biologist who captured some of the first photographic and video documentation of pronghorn migration. This case study answers Geo-Inquiry questions about environmental and human impacts on the epic migration pronghorn undertake twice a year in search of food.
Case Study for Grades K-2: Plastic Waste
How can we solve the problem of plastic waste in the United States? This Geo-Inquiry case study on the work of Lillygol Sedaghat guides young learners through the process of asking questions, gathering data and taking action.
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Last Updated
January 20, 2026
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