Google Maps

Overview

is not just for directions! There are now simple ways to share information and images created by marking up a map.

What Is It?

Google Maps is an online mapping application that facilitates locating places, measuring distances, and creating and sharing placemarks. It offers street maps, satellite views and for some places, "streetviews" (panoramas of what you would see if you were standing at that place). Recent updates allow users to share a wide variety of information and create mashups.

Who Uses It?

Everyone! There are great examples from the mundane (mapping the coffee shops) to important (global disease alert map). Annotated maps are especially useful for geography, political science, geology, history, art and business. Look at the mashups and tools index on the Google Maps Mania blog for hundreds of examples from a Beatles map to a US Population Map.

How Does It Work?

Navigate the map by searching using the text box, or by dragging the mouse. Searches can yield areas, cities, addresses, or driving directions. There are four viewing modes selectable with buttons on the upper right. The image here is a hybrid (satellite and street view). Your results can be saved using the "link to this page" link that gives a URL to be used to find the location on the map at a later time.

Uses as an Instructional Technology

Create your own annotated, customized maps, complete with placemarks, lines or shapes. Add text, photos, videos and then share your map with your students. Or, assign students to create annotated maps to complement and illustrate class content.

Google Maps for educators contains good examples.