The program’s capstone experience is a litter pickup in the field wherein the students utilize GIS technology to model the litter landscape.  Specific data collected in the field includes: category of litter (paper, plastic, metal, wood, etc.), where it was found, an image of the litter, whether it was picked up and if so, who picked it up.  Use of GIS technology enables real time, realistic, concrete modeling of the litter landscape that can be achieved in no other way, as students are able to capture, store, manipulate, analyze, manage and display the spatial or geographical data of litter in a locale, while also learning the underpinning of this technology.

Participation in the Map it CLEAN!™ program will increase student awareness, knowledge and empowerment to act regarding the issue of litter plaguing our communities.  Outcomes are measured through administering two surveys to the students designed to gauge their awareness, attitudes, perceptions and knowledge concerning litter.  The first survey is administered at the outset and the second survey is administered at the conclusion of the program.  Responses to both surveys are analyzed to measure changes in a student’s attitude and perception regarding litter, as well as knowledge of litter.  Lastly, findings are discussed with the students to identify trends.