Google Maps

View Driving directions to Rockhampton, Queensland in a larger map

The above is an example of Google Maps.  This map is showing the driving directions from Brisbane to Rockhampton.

What is Google Maps

Google maps is much like a street directory and atlas combined.  It can show you how to get to and from each place together with details of the length and time to complete the distance.

In addition to this Google Maps can show you a street view of a place.  For example, below is a Google Maps Street View of Surfers Paradise on the Gold Coast:-

You can see that it shows a capture picture of the street.

How to Use Google Maps

Google Maps is easy to use.  All you need to do is go to www.maps.google.com.au  From there you can simply enter the address you want to see and it will appear.  You can then select street view to see an image such as this.

For a more detailed explanation on how to use Google Maps please watch the following video:-

How Can Google Maps Be Used in the Classroom

Google maps is a great tool for Geography and History lessons as it can show places including historical places like the Eifell Tower etc.

However, it would also be useful in a mathematics lesson, such as looking at distance and time. 

PMI Analaysis

The advantages of using Google Maps is it is quick and easy to use and allows the learner to look at the exact image of the place searched rather than just a picture.  It provides specific details such as distance and time to assist with lesson plans. 

There are not many disadvantages to using Google Maps as it is an interesting tool.  The only issue would be to make sure that the lesson plan includes work that is not just visual but assists in higher levels of thinking.  Looking at Google Maps alone would not support higher levels of thinking, however, if used appropriately, such as a Mathematics lesson requiring students to look up the place and the distance and time etc and applying this information then it would support the Blooms Revised Taxonomies more appropriately (Blooms Taxonomyof Learning Domain)

I found Google Maps interesting as you can search places such as the Eiffel Tower.  It is also free to use.

Personal Reflection

Google maps is easy to use.  I have used it many times before when travelling.  It is a great tool and one I am sure I will use in the classroom.

References:

• All images were from Google Maps;
• http://maps.google.com.au/
• Blooms Taxonomy of Learning Domains (no date) - online resource - Link to Blooms Taxonomy of Learning Domain