Tools for Exploring

 

 

"The Web allows us to get information and explore places and worlds we will never go to."

~Dr. Taylor

 

Exploring the world is one of the most important things for our children to do in school. The programs and tools that are discussed in the exploring section can be used in the classroom to engage children while exploring new places and ideas. For example, you might fly to a different country to see what it looks like in Google Earth or you might take a walk down a street in another city in Google Maps.

 

 

Google Earth

 

 

Google Maps

 

 

WebQuests

   WebQuest template (Word document to get you started)

   Tips for designing a WebQuest

   Resources for creating and designing WebQuests

   5 steps for creating WebQuests article

Jing

    The always -ready program that instantly captures and shares images and video from computer to anywhere.

    Use Jing to share or to teach.

 

African American Ancestory  (trace geneology)

 

 

GPS

This is a satellite navigation system designed for, controlled and operated by the U.S. military (DOD). There are also many thousands of civil users of GPS world-wide. Useful for traveling, surveying etc., GPS can find with precision an exact location. Installed in many new cars, hand held units may also be purchased for use anywhere. GPS is used in mobile phones. Many GPS maps are available now to give vacationers and travellers opportunities to explore with greater confidence, and safety.

 

Check out the great sites below to learn more. Try Comparing features on GPS systems available for purchase, or find GPS maps from all over the world.

http://www.maps-gps-info.com

http://www.travelbygps.com/

 

 

Second Life  (some adult content)

This a 3D virtual world where users can socialize, connect and create using voice and text chat  This virtual world is imagined and created by its Residents. The basic version is free, but enhancements may be purchased. This unique 3D world is fun for entertainment, but has also been enbraced by Business and Education  as a tool for exploring.

http://www.secondlife.com/support/downloads.php

http://teen.secondlife.com/    (a teen version)

http://www.webkinz.com/us_en/   (child's version - entry requires purchase of toy)

http://www.clubpenguin.com  (child's version)