Google Earth

Google Earth is a FANTASTIC resource for classroom learning. There are endless possibilities for rich learning using GoogleEarth. It can be used as a research or creation tool. Google Earth allows for students to engage in learning experiences where they can discover things that would not be possible without such a fantastic digital learning tool. It allows the outside world to be brought right into the classroom learning environment. When used in the right ways this learning tool has the opportunity to enhance the learning of any age and level learner.

"Google Earth can help you bring a world of information ALIVE for your students"

GoogleEarth.com

There are teacher uses and student uses for Google Earth. Some interesting uses I have researched are

• Using the tool to explore the animal kingdom and endangered species using the national geographic layer and other content.
• Allowing students to investigate their local area in ways that could not be done without the program
• Study their environment (climate change and the effects of global warming)
• Track natural disasters such as earthquakes
• Teachers can use it to set the scene for learning experiences
• Involve students in proactive engagement in a wider range of google outreach projects
• Adapt learning experiences to the real world

Such learning experiences using Google Earth can be established in all of the KLA's.

Through using and implementing such a tool into classroom learning students are engaged in authentic, real world and problem based learning in which they can collaborate not only with their peers but the outside community.

This digital tool links with E Learning Frameworks such as productive pedagogies such as higher order thinking, connectedness, and knowledge integration. The engagement theory also supports learning with such an effective digital tool where students engage in collaborative learning tasks that involve real world and authentic contexts and meaning. Students would be given opportunity to relate, create and donate their learning using google earth.