Google Earth

Principal function(s): Autonomous learningGroup/pair work - classmatesIndividual workTeacherStudentWebsite/other users supply

Google Earth is a virtual globe and mapping software that allows users to explore the Earth's surface using satellite imagery, aerial photography, and 3D terrain data. Users can navigate and explore various locations on Earth by zooming in and out, tilting the view, and panning across the map. They can also use features like Street View to explore ground-level imagery and historical imagery to view past satellite images of specific locations. It serves multiple purposes, including geographic exploration, environmental studies, urban planning, and historical research. Google Earth was developed by Google and is free for use. While users can access basic features of Google Earth without signing up or having an account, signing in with a Google account allows access to additional features and personalized settings. Evaluation: Google Earth can be a valuable tool for classroom usage since it lends itself to several uses, among which following travel itineraries already available on the platform. Users can browse them by category (Nature, Culture, History, and more) and embark on virtual travels. Therefore, teachers can prepare a class around one of those topics and then use Google Earth to visit different places. This can help engage students with a topic and immerse themselves in the desired space. Moreover, users can create new maps themselves. In this regard, another possibility would be to ask students to create a map on some topic of interest and deliver a presentation. Google Earth also offers the option to randomly select a destination, which can be a fun way to explore new places and foster intercultural skills through virtual voyages. So even if it does not specifically target language skills, it can be used to produce engaging language-learning activities.

Cost: Free without registration.

Website: https://earth.google.com/web/

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