Google Earth

After downloading Google Earth I am only now beginning to realise the full extent of its potential as an e-learning tool. As a technology it displays satellite images of varying resolution of the Earth's surface, allowing users to explore various landmarks and cities from a number of different angles using 3D imagery. The degree of resolution available is based somewhat on the points of interest and popularity, but most land (except for some islands) is covered in at least 15 meters of resolution (1).

For students, Google Earth allows students to explore not only the world, but mars, the moon, and the stars and other celestial bodies through sky view (1). Students can also go back in history and explore the past to see how locations have changed over time. Furthermore, through collaborations with wikipedia, youtube, the national geographic magazine and panaramio students can access interesting information, statistics, videos, and images regarding various locations and landmarks.

In learning contexts, the possibilities enabled through this technology are endless especially in the fields of history, social studies, and geography. While I remember using atlases and books to research these topics in my primary school years, students now have some of the most up-to-date images and data available regarding world issues at their fingertips. While the satellite images do not use real-time imagery at this point in time, I have no doubt that in the future we will see this eventuate as technology continues to become more advanced. For now however, Google Earth remains an extraordinary e-learning tool. Students can travel the world free of charge eliminating the need and/or reducing the disadvantage for students who cannot afford to travel with their schools on expensive field trips.

References
1)http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Google_Earth

REFLECTIONS
In your opinion, how would exploring a location through Google Earth facilitate an enhanced learning experience for students?