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Tech in the Classroom: Google Maps

What is it?  Google Maps is an online mapping service that provides street maps; a route planner for traveling by foot, car, bike or public transport and an urban business locator for numerous countries around the world.

How does it work?  Simply type in an address or other location (city, state, landmark, etc.) and Google Maps takes you there. You have the option of viewing your location as a classic map, or through the eyes of satellite cameras.

How hard is it to use? It’s not difficult at all. Everything is very intuitive; the only thing users must be careful of is typing the locations in the proper format and in the proper field. The only hard part about using Google Maps is deciding where you want to go.

How well does it work?  Whether you’re looking for the best way to get to the airport, or want to see what the Great Wall of China looks like from space, Google Maps gets you there in a matter of seconds.

How do I use it in the classroom?  Using the satellite view history or geography, teachers can show other parts of the world as they currently are. Students can use it to map the position of the pyramids of Giza, or study the layout of Paris.

Related resources

Read about other products featured in the Tech in the Classroom series.

Tech in the Classroom is a recurring feature that examines widely available technology, software and gadgets and how they might be used in a school setting.

 

Article by Jason Tomaszewski, EducationWorld Associate Editor
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