Google Expeditions is a new opportunity for schools, a product that allows teachers to take their classes on virtual field trips, immersing students in experiences that bring abstract concepts to life and giving students a deeper understanding of the world beyond the classroom. These trips are collections of virtual reality panoramas — 360° 3D photo spheres — annotated with details, points of interest, and questions that make them easy to integrate into curriculum already used in schools. The students viewed them in Google Cardboard headsets provided by the Google team.
While nothing replaces hopping on the bus for a field trip, Expeditions provide an unparalleled opportunity for supplemental learning. The Wildlife Conservation Society, PBS, the American Museum of Natural History, the Planetary Society, and the Palace of Versailles contributed to developing the curriculum for students. The Pioneer Program has been visiting select schools around the world this year, sharing this experience and gathering feedback on developing this exciting new educational tool. At Keys, the sounds of awe, enthusiasm, and wonder were almost tangible.
Some of the Expeditions Keys Students experienced were, The Great Wall of China, The Pyramids of Giza, Chichen Itza, Mars, Under Sea Adventure, Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, New York City’s Tenement Museum, California State Parks, and National Parks of China. Some questions you might ask your child are:
Which Expedition did you visit?
Which was your favorite image to see?
How did you feel looking at your Expeditions?
What did you learn about the place you visited?