geocaching: let's go on a treasure hunt!
DESCRIPTION
This is an introduction of geocaching to educators K-12 presented at the 3C's Conference at The Behrend College, Penn State University.TRANSCRIPT
Geocaching: Let’s go on aTreasure
Hunt!
Mary Beth Hengelbrokhttp://mhengelbrok.wikispaces.com/geocaching
The sport where YOU are the search engine
•A high-tech treasure hunt•Need a GPS•Seek a cache based on latitude and longitude coordinates •This is not just a teaching tool, it’s a lifetime activity.
What is Geocaching?
Global Positioning System
•Approx: $100-$500 •Garmin and Magellan are the most popular•Can download cache•Info into the receiver if it is properly equipped•iPhones•Groundspeak App $10
GPS
Using three satellites, you should be able to determine your exact position through trilateration.
Some variables include:TreesBuildingsAtmospheric Interference, etc.
*A typical hand held receiver gets within 5-15 feet.
How Does It Work?
•Build an account on www.geocaching.com
Search by city, zip code, state, driving route, etc. (I usually search by zip code--16506)
Record the latitude and longitude coordinates and read the hints!
How do I find a cache?
•Sign the log book •Trade items—Take something, leave something•Look for travel bugs and geocoins•Be sure to put the cache back in the same
place you found it with the appropriate amount of camouflage.
When you find the cache…
•Get as close to the location as you can.•Insert the coordinates into the GPS. •Follow the compass until it gets to 0-10
feet. •Use your “geosense” to find the cache.
Then what?
Travel Bugs
Geocoins
Collectable and Tradable Items
•Take a bag that includes:•GPS•First Aid kit/bug spray•Pen/Pencil•Swag/Tradable items•Compass
‘Survival Guide’
Muggles: Those who are not geocachers. You must be careful to be stealthy around them!
TFTC: Thanks for the CacheTFTF: Thanks for the FindTNLN: Took Nothing Left Nothing
Some ‘Lingo’
•Reading latitude and longitude•Map skills•Using a compass•Can add a research component•Cross-curricular connections•Letterboxing Hybrid
Educational Benefits
•http://www.educaching.com/ •Resource for lesson plans, how-to CD•$32.00•Also includes ideas for
grant writing
Educaching
www.geocaching.com : For all your geocaching needs
A site for beginners: http://www.factsfacts.com/geocacher.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geocaching
Want to find out more?
Other Books For Your Library
•PAECT list of resources- including GIS software• Caching Teacher Blog•Podcachers•Geocaching List Serv (for teachers)•Dr. Christie’s Guide for Educators
Other Information
Google Earth & GPS•Elementary and Secondary Versions•$34.95•Lesson Plans and blackline masters
ScienceU.S. History/Geography
