360 Cities

360 Cities is a site powered by Google for panoramic images. The way this is incorporated is nice because it uses the Google Earth interface. I really can see this being used in some type of History/Geography class. Also, this would be a really nice resource for photographers to teach panoramic imaging.

More info direct from their site, "360cities.net is a great way to check out thousands of high-resolution, interactive panorama images from around the world."



Give 360 Cities a try by clicking here.

AR Sights

AR Sights is a company that deals w/ virtual and augmented reality. AR is the implementation of digital technology into the "real" world. I first learned of this site from iLearning's blog, and have been completely blown away ever since.

Basically, what you can do from this site is browse Google Earth online, no download necessary. Just wait.... it gets better. Not only can you browse Google Earth online, but you can open up any Google Earth "landmark" on your desktop and I'm not referring to your computer. It is kind of like a cross between a hologram and VR, think R2D2 when he is displaying Obi One Kenobi via Princess Leia's message and you would not be to far off.

A downside is this is only available for Windows right now, but the educational possibilities are endless (virtual tours, Google Sketch-Up incorporation, etc.)

For more info click here.

Below is an AR example of the Statue of Liberty...

Google Earth 5.0

When speaking of innovation and cutting edge technology, it’s hard to find a company that comes to mind before Google. Ok, maybe Apple, but that’s about it ;-)

Google has just released their new version of Google Earth which is in beta. You can download a copy and view the virtual tour by clicking here.

So, what’s new in this version, and makes it perhaps the greatest update GE has ever seen? How about these 3 new features: historical images (think Time Machine, the movie not the Apple App), Ocean Floor (just a matter of time for this one, make sure to check out the Jacque Cousteau tour), and touring w/ audio/voice recording!!!

These new features among the current ones, make Google Earth a unique experience and a great resource to use in education. To view some other things that you can do in GE such as virtual ROME (gladiator days), Disney World, etc check out my Google page by clicking here.