What is a GPS?

GPS stands for Global Positioning System. A GPS uses satellites to relay location and time information to a mobile device. Some of the most common used devices are the Tom Tom and Garmin. These devices are primarily used in cars to get driving directions to another location. There are now also apps for your smart phone to have it work as a GPS. The GPS can be used to find your current location, or find a way to any location you select.

How can a GPS be used to increase student learning?

A GPS could be a very useful item when the classroom is taken outside its traditional walls. A teacher would be able to program locations into their students GPS’s. From there, students could then visit the locations, and complete the tasks at the location that the teacher asks of them. Another option, is teachers can use a GPS to have students measure distances. Students can use the GPS to learn about Distance, rate, and speed. Here are 2 links that have multiple more ideas for using a GPS in the classroom:

1) http://rockyweb.cr.usgs.gov/outreach/gps.html

2) http://www.gis2gps.com/GPS/gps.html

3) http://www.geocaching.com/

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