The Endless Possibilities of Google Earth

Exploring Google Earth was an amazing experience. I had seen friends use it to view their homes or other areas, but I had no idea that it had so many different capabilities. One of the best parts about it is the ability to not only explore Earth’s surface, but it can also explore beneath the ocean’s surface, and also surrounding moons and planets. If that is not enough, it also offers the ability to view these locations over time. A scroll bar allows you to see how an area has changed and developed throughout history. With all of these fun things to do and explore wouldn’t it be great if you could chronicle the places you visited. Well, look no further, Google Earth also allows you to record your tour. With all of these features and more to come, Google Earth is a great tool for use within the classroom. The only downfalls that exist with the program are cost, which could be hefty for implementation into schools, and the access to computers and projectors that would be needed. Once you get past these downfalls, the possibilities are endless for the uses in the classroom. The interactive nature of the program makes it a phenomenal teaching tool, and will really bring a level of excitement and awe to the students. Being able to show the development of a location over time would be an outstanding tool to incorporate into lessons. Showing close-ups of the moon and other planets, along with far off destinations on Earth is a great way for kids to connect and relate better to a lesson. Showing them the destruction and development of the school and surrounding areas is a great way to get kids involved. Overall, Google Earth is an excellent instrument to use as a teacher as long as you have the means to access it.