This document provides an introduction to GPS (Global Positioning System) and geocaching. It explains that GPS uses 24 satellites and a receiver unit to determine accurate locations. Geocaching is described as a high-tech treasure hunt that uses GPS to hide and find containers anywhere in the world. The document gives instructions on how to find geocaches using a website and GPS unit. It provides examples of how geocaching can be used for educational purposes in schools.

1. Introduction to GPS & Geocaching Jim Clark Instructional Technology Department Wichita Public Schools

2. Navigating in the Past

3. What is GPS? It is a system of 24 satellites that are used in conjunction with a receiver unit and a control station to allow for very accurate determination of location

5. Space Segment Satellite Constellation GPS Satellite

6. Ground Segment Basic GPS Unit

7. Garmin eTrex GPS Receiver Very inexpensive Very durable Great for basic instruction in use of GPS Stores waypoints and routes

8. The front of the eTrex

9. The Back of the eTrex

10. Important Pages Skyview Page Menu Page Waypoints Page Waypoint Review Page Compass Page

11. What is Geocaching? High tech treasure hunt that uses global positioning system (GPS) receiver to hide and seek containers (caches) anywhere in the world

12. Geocaching Go to http://www.geocaching.com Create account Under Search for caches… enter the latitude and longitude for location

13. Geocaches near Us

14. Geocaches near us

15. Downloading Geocaches Check in check box Click on Download Waypoints

16. To Manage the Geocaches Download and install EasyGPS ( www.easygps.com ) Launch EasyGPS and select file you downloaded You may then upload or download geocache waypoints from your receiver

17. EasyGPS

18. GPS Visualizer

19. Geocaches Waterproof container Contains “swag”, stash note, pencil/pen, and log book You should add to the swag if you take swag Congratulations, you found it! If you found this cache by accident please don’t remove it, this is a Geocaching treasure box! Join us in the fun of using GPS to find hidden treasures worldwide at www.geocaching.com . Please let us know if you would like us to remove this geocache. Name: Date: Waypoint: Owner:

20. Travel Bugs “ dog tag” registered at Geocaching.com You may track the path of the bug Have goals and descriptions

21. Example Classroom Standards Third Grade Math Numeracy Geometry and Measurement Data Analysis and Probability Science Geography Technology

22. Uses in Education Modified from http://www.teachinghacks.com/wiki/index.php?title=Geocaching_for_Educators Use Travel Bugs to track an items movement from place to place, including any stories that are picked up along the way Create a multi-cache that includes information about the local history of an area. Create a multi-cache that explores cultural connections of the local area. Create a cache that explores issues in environmental education. Create a cache and story locating the missing school mascot.

23. Uses in Education Create caches that explore numeracy. Participate in projects that help students collaborate with others around the world. Participate in a "Cache In, Trash Out" environmental education day. Create a geocaching club at school. Use virtual caches to avoid planting too many caches for your students. Survey school grounds with GPS units Create caches exploring sculptures Create historical caches Scale off the solar system

24. Future iPhone location (indoors and out) Cell: 500 meters Wi-Fi (Skyhook wireless): 30 meters GPS: 10 meters

25. Jim Clark Instructional Technology Department Wichita Public Schools [email_address] http://technology.usd259.org/resources/