Using Google Maps in the Classroom

Lots of people have used Google Maps to find directions, but did you know it can also be a powerful tool in the classroom? The use of Google Maps in the classroom creates an engaging atmosphere with students by merging ideas with visual representation. By signing up for a free Google account you can access the My Maps feature of Google Maps and create your own editable map. Here is an example of a quick map I created that explores the travels of Marco Polo. Click on any of the blue points to view the description, image, or video that I have added.

For a better representation of the map click here: Large Map





When you create a My Map you can add pictures and descriptions to locations, add hyperlinks, embed videos, and create your own emphasis of events through routes, lines, and shapes. Some uses of the My Maps tool in the classroom could be:

• In English you could show the history and progression of the Romantic literary period
• In Science you could create a visual representation of the spread of a pandemic or scientific idea
• In Social Science you could demonstrate the movements of ethnic groups
• In Geography you could create a map of land resources and waterways 
• In History you could show the movements of a battle or a route of conquest 

You can embed or link your own maps into PowerPoint slides, in your Blackboard Learn course, or through an extension with Google Earth for a 3D representation
Here is a Google created tutorial on how to easily create your own My Map:



 


If you would like more information or assistance in creating your own Google Map for the classroom please contact the Sandbox!

Show, Don't Tell: Technology in the Classroom

Kansas State University professor Michael Wesch is a major proponent for the integration of emerging technology in the classroom. He has hosted TED talks on enriching classroom experience through technology, was given an award by Wired magazine for his successful implementation of a modern classroom in the digital age, and named national professor of the year by the Carnegie Foundation. However, some faculty who have failed to duplicate his methods for success have questioned his approach to integration, which led professor Wesch to reexamine his ideas. This article follows Wesch’s story, from his initial success, to the reassessment of his methods, and finally to his own conclusion that technology used wisely and serves a purpose, is still a great tool for engaging students and enhancing learning. Wesch’s experience is a great reminder to all faculty, that technology is a only tool in the learning environment, and should serve a function and not merely act as a distraction.

The Chronicle of Higher Education article can be found here:  Professor Reboots

On a lighter note: Edudemic.com has put together an entertaining, and for some nostalgic, look at the evolution of technology in the classroom from 1650 all the way to 2010. Its an interesting glimpse at not only the history of  instructional technology, but also demonstrates that the integration of technology in the classroom is nothing new. This article enforces the idea that emerging technology is nothing to fear as it has been with us and will continue to evolve at a relative pace.
The Edudemic article can be found here:  Evolution of Classroom Technology