Google Earth in the Classroom

Google Earth has changed the way today's computer and Internet users search, map, and learn about the world. Both Google Maps and Google Earth are free to use, and can provide hours of both entertainment and learning in a simple format for even the most navigationally challenged. Google Earth as part of a classroom curriculum can help students succeed in a variety of outlets: these might include learning how to read map layers, pinpoint key landmarks and destinations, and just 'visit' the world from any computer. Simply typing in a destination in the search box creates an instant fly-by from the student's current address or location; it is not only an effective visual learning tool, but can help students literally see the world through new eyes when they can skim across the continent in just a few seconds!

Geography teachers aren't the only group who can make the most of Google Earth and its multitude of possibilities. Business teachers can use Google Earth to map out market trends, and even layer data on market research for a particular case study or sample set. English and history teachers can create their own maps for students to visit and learn about a particular era; it's easy and simple to create a uniquely-defined Google Map, add it to a website or blog, and let students explore the presentation. Imagine the advantages for art students who can visit any of the world's museums from a distance; Google Earth offers tourist destination versions where landmarks and key buildings are populated, and a simple mouse-over can bring up the place's website for easy access.

If it's lifelike voyages and tours you're after, visit the Google Earth Community discussion forum and step into the worlds of the Google Sightseer, National Geographic highlights, or the Huge and Unique folder for some of the world's large and unusual places. The Google Earth Community has been a popular destination for Google Earth enthusiasts from its beginnings, and is updated daily with contributions of personal maps, layers, and fun and games from around the world. Encouraging students to participate in the Google Earth Community can be a boost for many learning modules. Whether they are creating their own themed maps, or visiting topic-specific maps as a research aid, Google Earth can provide extended benefits well beyond the textbook or other multimedia channels.

Google Earth also offers an enhanced version, Google PRO at a subscription cost; this version is tailored for in-depth studies and offers even more information per location. It can be used to create simulations, fly-overs, and more special-effects style options for all users. Although Google Earth PRO is ideal for business simulations, it is a great resource for aerial photography, cinematic views, and 3-D modeling of the world's major cities. Google Earth PRO is a growing project, and will continue to be fine-tuned as more data becomes available through the satellite pictures; still, it is a worthwhile upgrade for many frequent Google Earth users.

Combining and integrating all sorts of data into a Google Map is considered a 'mashup.' These can be fun and useful tools on hundreds of topics: items such as mapping crime in an area, tracking traffic trends, mapping out real estate sales in a given area (comparable to the works of Trulia.com), and even mapping game day highlights at your local stadium with MapGameDay.com. A comprehensive list of current mashups can be found here. Today's information on thousands of subjects is quickly growing into visual form with the aid of Google Maps and Google Earth. Teachers, instructors, and professors can shift their visual aid learning and teaching styles online with some powerful integration options, and today's web-friendly classrooms are offering some very effective, and highly valuable modes of learning.