Google Earth, a 3D Earth viewer
Autonomous learningGroup/pair work - classmatesIndividual workWebsite/other users supply
Description: Google Earth is a virtual globe and mapping software that allows users to explore the Earth's surface using satellite imagery, aerial photography, and 3D terrain data. Users can navigate and explore various locations on Earth by zooming in and out, tilting the view, and panning across the map. They can also use features like Street View to explore ground-level imagery and historical imagery to view past satellite images of specific locations. Google Earth is free to use and does not require having an account to access its basic features. It is available in both browser and desktop versions.
Evaluation: Google Earth can be a valuable tool for classroom usage since it lends itself to several uses, among which following travel itineraries already available on the platform. Users can browse them by category (Nature, Culture, History, and more) and embark on virtual travels. Therefore, teachers can prepare a class around one of those topics and then use Google Earth to visit different places. This can help engage students with a topic and immerse themselves in the desired space. Moreover, users can create new maps themselves. In this regard, another possibility would be to ask students to create a map on some topic of interest and deliver a presentation. Finally, Google Earth also offers the option to randomly select a destination, which can be a fun way to explore new places and foster intercultural skills through virtual voyages.
Cost: Free without registration.
Type Of Interaction:
Group/pair work - classmates,
Individual work,
Content:
Website/other users supply,
Usability and tech notes ▼
Time efficiency 
Time needed to learn how to use a tool and its time-saving potential: Medium.
Interface language(s) The number of languages in which the tool is currently available/adaptable to: All of Google’s languages, i.e over 100 languages.
Respect for privacy What data does the tool collect and why? What security measures are there? GDPR compliant? : Low. Google is well known for using user data for advertising and marketing purposes, but it does offer a high degree of security for data. In fact, Google Earth’s introduction raised a lot of privacy concerns since it displays people’s houses and even faces, sometimes without blurring, and without explicitly asking for consent. Google Earth’s privacy policy does not state compliance with the GDPR. See more here.
Saving work for future use Can work be saved for future use?: Yes, users with an account can create their own maps, among others.