Because of this, we can do that

If you’re like me, you use Google Maps.  And, probably for a lot of things other than just drawing a map.  You might explore new places, get driving directions, look for traffic problems on highways, get a visual of construction sites to ignore, and much more.

Over the weekend, I read and highly encourage you to read this story.

How Google Builds Its Maps—and What It Means for the Future of Everything

I really enjoyed the part about someone reporting a new round-about; we have one here in the Windsor are for leaving the 401.  It’s possible to see it for free on Google Maps

yet, in my car, I would need to shell out for a maps upgrade to see it.  In the meantime, when I get on it, my in-car maps shows me traversing over a farmer’s field.  It’s not a huge deal; it’s a double lane roundabout and you’re well advised to keep your eyes on the traffic.

But, time and technology move on.  Google Maps (and Streetview) have you covered.

p.s. it’s never this wide open whenever I go there.  The fact that we get these images from Maps, Earth, and Streetview still blow me away.

And when they marry, amazing things can happen.  I’d like to refer you to a post on this blog from a couple of years ago that uses a “Secret Door” to randomly drop you into a Streetview location.

I still think it’s a magnificent starting point for discussions, analysis, or a starting place for great writing.

A SECRET DOOR TO WRITING IDEAS

How many times have your students written a blog post about their dog or their cat? Looking for something new and completely different?

Then, you need to check out “The Secret Door“.

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