Digital Tool 8- Google Earth

Google Earth is an engaging tool for both adults and children. Having used Google Earth prior to this course I initially found it very fascinating, but also a little scary. Being able to see my car clearly from the street view vision and knowing this information is available worldwide is a clear awakening of the development of technology. Thinking about this further and also getting a little off track, I also find it amazing that these street views and information are available to everybody, anywhere, anytime. If this information is accessible to so called 'normal' people, imagine what is available to people in higher power. Within a classroom context Google Earth can be cleverly integrated into lessons to further engage learners. Topics such as architecture, real estate, construction, engineering, astronomy, oceanography, agriculture, planning and mathematics can use Google Earth to enhance learning, relating the topics to a real world scenario.

Google Earth has many valuable functions, it allows users to tour the world, look at historical imagery, use navigational control and allows for tilting and viewing of hilly terrains. I will definitely incorporate Google Earth into my classroom in the future. With the appropriate pedagogy this tool gives students an insightful and authentic way of looking at the world. Integrating these worldly learning opportunities, will allow learners to see the 'bigger picture' furthering their knowledge and ways of thinking.