Journal 8: Web 2.0 Evaluation Google Earth (NETS 1, 3, and 5)

For this assignment I referenced a website called Classroom 2.0 to follow threads on the classroom applications of GoogleEarth. In the journal response below I have explained GoogleEarth and noted what I learned from following these threads posted by teachers. I also read similar journal entries posted by other classmates and learned about other web 2.0 tools used in the classroom. In doing this assignment I engaged in a global learning community to explore creative applications of technology to improve student learning (NETS 5). I also demonstrated collaboration with peers using digital tools and resources to support student success and innovation (NETS 3). I have learned the GoogleEarth is a strong web 2.0 tool that can be used to explore real-world issues and to solve authentic problems using digital tools (NETS 1).


Google Earth is a free download that allows you to explore everything from a single star in the sky to a 2 foot bush on your own front lawn. Upon opening the program, you begin by navigating a virtual globe by simply moving across the earth with your mouse, zooming into specific locations, or choosing longitude and latitude coordinates or programmed tours. The possibly explorations and learning for the user are endless and the program is friendly to use too. The program allows you to fly under the ocean's surface, view images of historical earth, see the sun's shadows on earth at any chosen time, visit real high resolution imaged volcano sites, travel to Ancient Rome or explore a 360 degree panorama of Taj Mahal or the Black Desert. Contributions made by The New York Times, National Geographic, and You Tube provide information on global issues, historicall landmarks & events, and knowledge about deep sea creatures.

Google Earth is a wonderful tool to use in the classroom to support curriculum. I followed discussions on cross curricular uses of Google Earth on a Classroom 2.0 thread and learned the many ways teachers are applying this technology in the classroom. The main point I learned from following these discussions is that Google Earth can be used on many different levels and can strengthen the connections drawn between different subject areas and lesson objectives. For example, one teacher used Google Earth with his class to track, plot, graph, and write about typhoons that have hit their specific region. Students measured data, made scientific predictions, created graphical representations of history and the geological effects typhoons have on earth. In addition, they connected real life occurrences to learning. In this example, the teacher promoted learning related to math, science, history, and geology.

Also, check out realworldmath.org for great ideas on using Google Earth in real-world math activities.