10/16: Explore the world online

We live in a diverse and interesting world.  And being curious about the world is natural, as well as stimulating for the brain.  However, actually getting to these places may not be possible.  The good news is that we can explore the world without leaving our home.  In this class, we will look at a variety of resources that allow you to visit the world without leaving your chair.

This lesson will include:

·         Using a maps program to navigate

·         Setting up your navigation in your car either with existing technology or recommended tools

·         Discovering places using Google Earth

·         Finding Virtual Museums to visit without leaving home

·         Resources to find diverse recipes from around the world

·         Interactive games and activities to learn about different cultures

·         Free online classes to increase your understanding of other countries and cultures

Using a maps program to navigate

Using a maps app (such as Google Maps, Apple Maps or Waze) is straightforward.  To use them, you will

1.  Open the maps program on your device

2.  Enter the destination in the search bar

3.  Click on the directions button

4.  Choose your mode (car, walking, ride sharing, public transit)

5.  Include any restrictions (tolls, traffic)

6.  Follow directions provided

Read more about using Apple Maps: How to use Apple Maps (appleinsider.com)

Read more about using Google Maps: Use navigation in the Google Maps app - Android - Google Maps Help

Apple Maps Navigation

If you have a newer car, you probably have an infotainment system set up already.  To use your phone’s map (as well as a hands-free way to control messaging, phone calls, music and more) you will plug your phone into the cable provided (or connect with Bluetooth).  You may have to have your car on, and make sure that you are signed into your phone before connecting it. 

Your infotainment system may be set up for Android Auto or for Apple CarPlay.  IF this is the case, you can only use an iPhone with Apple CarPlay and an Android phone with Android Auto.  However, some of these are set up for both.  Check your car’s information to see.

Once connected, you can tap on the map icon (Apple or Google).  You can speak your destination or use your phone to set it.

If your car does not have a built-in infotainment system, there are options.

Built in:  You can invest some money and install an in-dash digital media receiver.  You can buy one for Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.  One example is the Alpine devices offered through Best Buy.   Prices range from $300 to $500 and include installation.  Make sure that this device is compatible for your car.  (You can fill in the specs prior to searching).

Google Earth is a geographic information system (GIS) which enables users to create, store, view and interact with data relating to location.  It can be used as a desktop app, which is downloaded to your device.  Or you can view it in a browser.  Google is no longer updating the desktop app, so viewing in a browser is recommended.   We will use our computer to find the Louvre and will learn tools on the program to get a better look at the area.  Here is the process we will follow:

Access Google Earth: Open your preferred web browser (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, Safari). In the address bar, type in https://www.google.com/earth/ and press Enter or Return on your keyboard.  Google Earth

Launch Google Earth: On the Google Earth homepage, click on the button labeled "Launch Earth" or "Launch Google Earth."

Search for a Location: Once Google Earth has loaded, you'll see a search bar on the left side of the screen. Click on the search bar and type "Louvre Museum, Paris" and press Enter or Return on your keyboard.

Learn about the Louvre:  In the small window on the right, you can view different scenes from the Louvre.

Explore the Location: Google Earth will zoom in on the Louvre Museum in Paris. You can explore the area by:

·         Zooming In/Out: Use the "+" and "-" buttons on the right side of the screen or scroll with your mouse.

·         Rotating: Click and drag your mouse to rotate the view.

·         Panning: Click and drag using the right mouse button or two fingers (on a touchpad) to move around the area.

View in Street View: If you want a street-level view, find and click on the little yellow "Pegman" icon located on the bottom right of the screen.  Drag and drop the "Pegman" onto a blue line or dot on the map near the Louvre. You'll be taken to a street-level view where you can virtually "walk" around and explore.

Exit Street View: If you're in Street View and want to go back to the aerial view, click on the arrow or "Back to Map" button located on the top left corner of the screen.

Exit Google Earth: When you're done exploring, simply close the browser tab or window to exit Google Earth.

Some websites offer activities to introduce you to different cultures and history.  These are the types of interactive experiences that engage your curiosity and encourage learning.  Some ideas:

• Google’s Art and Culture  (Definitely click on these activities!  They are FUN!)

  • •  Play Ode to Joy on a Viola Viola the Bird — Google Arts & Culture

    • Blob Opera Blob Opera — Google Arts & Culture

    • Art Tarot Cards to read your future Artot. — Google Arts & Culture

    • Cultural crosswords Cultural Crosswords — Google Arts & Culture

•  On the history channel, how about some history trivia?  History Quizzes & Questions: Test Your Historical Trivia Knowledge - HistoryExtra

• Or for other trivia on Sporcle.  History Quizzes (sporcle.com)  Just for fun, try the “Win the 2020 Presidential Election Mindfield”, where you are guessing the states you need to win the election.

• A combination memory and currency game.  Link the country with the currency.  Multicultural Education through Miniatures (frommanylands.com)

• Click on a clothing type and match with the country: Multicultural Education through Miniatures (frommanylands.com)

Settle back in the chair and learn more about the world.  Some ideas:

National Geographic Expeditions:

·         First, go to the YouTube Channel( NatGeoExpeditions - YouTube) and choose from the many options available.  Costa Rich, Antarctica, The Galapagos and more.  These short videos provide an overview of some of the most interesting places in the world.

·         Interested in going in person?  Go to the parent website ( National Geographic Traveler Vacation Packages | National Geographic Expeditions) to book your next trip.

TRACKS Travel Documentaries (YouTube) (TRACKS - Travel Documentaries - YouTube):  View by Top destinations, or by region. 

Rugged Road Trips:  This site offers us 11 adventure travel documentaries.  The site provides a direct link to the videos, all on YouTube.  11 Adventure Travel Documentaries on YouTube to keep you inspired during the Corona Crisis (ruggedroadtrips.com)

There are many free classes offered online which can provide insights into different regions and cultures.  Here are a few courses that you might enjoy:

• AARP:  AARP offers a variety of classes through their Virtual Community Center.  Here are some of the options listed under culture.  Free AARP Events Online - AARP Virtual Community Center - AARP

•  MIT Open Courseware:  This site offers many of the classes taken by students at MIT to anyone who is interested.  One course is Introduction to Art History.  You download the course from the website and go at your own pace.  Introduction to Art History | Architecture | MIT OpenCourseWare.  Another option on the MIT site is Popular Musics of the World. Download and enjoy!  Popular Musics of the World | Music and Theater Arts | MIT OpenCourseWare

• edX Learning:  Another large variety of classes most free.  Enjoy a class on European History, Society and Culture (European History, Society and Culture | edX)

•  Harvard learning:  Take a class offered through Harvard for free (no certificate).  For example, learn more about Post-Mao China in a class focusing on the People’s Republic, Taiwan and Hong Kong.   This class uses the case study method to study China.  (Contemporary China: The People's Republic, Taiwan, and Hong Kong | Harvard University)