GOOGLE MAPS FOR PHYSICISTS

Distance versus displacement.  Speed versus Velocity 

They look similar but not the same.  It is quite challenging to teach the students about their differences.  They know the definition but unable to imagine it.  They learn more when they can relate the concept with their daily life experiences.   I try to use a 400 m running track as an example.  A person who complete a 400 m run has covered distance of 400 m but his displacement is 0m.  It does help but I’m looking for a more interesting example that use technology. 

While preparing the lesson plan I came across an example that use google map to show the distance.  Why don't I use the same example to differentiate between distance and displacement! But wait...Usually they google maps only shows the total path traveled.  How do I show them the displacement on the map?  Do I need to use a ruler instead or some calculation?  

It is time to explore the google maps.  I search the internet to find information.  To my surprise, there is a feature that enable us to determine the displacement from one place to another place. First, we need to determine the starting point and the destination.  Then use the right click and choose measure distance from the options provided.  Here we go...google maps give you the shortest distance between starting point and end point which is known as displacement.  For example, distance from MRSM Sungai Besar to Tanjong Malim is 59.5 km shown by blue line on the maps while the displacement is 43.25 km to the east shown by the scale.

Whoa...that is so amazing! I've never knew about it before.  A voice full of amazement heard from the back of the classroom. I smile while looking at my students' bright face.  They seem to understand the topic.  That's a good sign on how technology helps in learning and teaching process. Next, we try some other starting points and destinations according to students’ preference.  I asked them to determine the distance and displacement of the two places.  They able to differentiate between these two concepts.

Moving to the next chapter, I also used Google maps for the students to differentiate between the speed and velocity of the car.  To get the average speed of car, they need to calculate the total distance over total time taken.  For the average velocity, they need to calculate the displacement over total time taken.  This can be done since Google maps indicate the distance as well as the estimated time taken. 

Google maps has done a good job.  It is not only showing the route for the traveler to get them to the destination but also showing the way for my physics student to understand about the distance and displacement as well as speed and velocity.  The compass feature in Google maps also helps the students to determine the direction which is useful in determining the vector quantity such as displacement and velocity.  I am looking forward to explore Google maps as my teaching and learning tools.