Google Earth vs. Google Tour Builder

There are many great technology tools out there that bring Earth to life. A couple tools to use in the classroom are Google Earth and Google Tour Builder! They are similar, but still very different at the same time.

Google Earth

Google Earth is an application that you can download to your computer. Follow the link above, and you can use it on the web, mobile device, or you can download it to your desktop. Here is a video that gives a beginner a tutorial on how to use Google Earth.

Google Earth is great way to explore different parts of the world. It helps engage students' learning, and it brings places to life more than just a picture. There are several great resources and websites to help you plan an activity with Google Earth in your classroom.

Google Earth Teaching Websites and Ideas:
-How Teachers are using Google Earth in the Classroom
-How to Teach with Google Earth

Another great tool to bring Earth to life is Google Tour Builder. Google Tour Builder reminds me of a mix of Google Slides and Google Earth mixed into one great resource for a teacher. It makes a presentation of different locations. It is a very easy resource to use to create a presentation that brings places to life. Here is a tutorial of how to create a Google Tour.

 I have created a Google Tour for my Social Studies class this year. The purpose of my tour is to get the students excited about Ancient Civilizations! Here is the link to my Google Tour.

It's very easy to share your Google Tour Builder with students or colleagues. Here are some other resources I found for teaching and Google Tour Builder:

The War for Independence
Tool of the Month

I think Google Tour Builder can be better than Google Earth because there are set locations, descriptions, videos and pictures that can be added to every location. Your students will love this application!