For your make-up assignment, read the three links below. Two are on Google Maps and its mapping technology, and the third is an application of Google Maps, using the technology to explore different areas of the world virtually. Since all of you in the beginning of the quarter indicated iPhone/smart phone applications as the main encounter you've had with mapping, I thought it would be interesting to think more critically about these technologies now that we know a little more about the history of mapping and the relation of mapping and geography to culture and politics.
After reading through the three links, I would like you to:
1. Provide a brief summary of each of the three links, about a paragraph or so for each.
2. Write a separate paragraph thinking critically on some of the ideas presented in any of the three links - a critical observation, a critique, or a different interpretation you may have.
3. Respond to one of the three YouTube videos included in the "Seven Wonders of the World on Google Street View," writing on your experience, feelings, or observations watching the video.
Make-up Assignment for 2/9
ReplyDeleteSummaries:
The first article, How Google Builds Its maps, we learn about the basic programming for their maps which includes speed limits and traffic. It then talks about how Google’s expansion, main goals, and strengths (information gathering). It then goes on to talk about maps and how that the satellite data isn’t always realistic, and this is where street view cars come in to play. Google has a lot of human effort put into their maps. With new roads being built all the time, these maps are constantly being updates.
The second article, Google Maps: a decade of transforming the mapping landscape, author Samuel Gibbs discusses how far maps have come in just a bout a decade. A team of 50 people set out to create this new map app. This came with its challenges and Google wasn’t always the top company. Google worked hard from above and from ground level to acquire all the info to make them so successful. In 2007, Google maps first appeared on iPhones. This later developed to include many of the features we rely on today, including turn-by-turn directions.
In the third article, Seven Wonders of the World to explore on Google Street View, we learn about how many amazing locations are being mapped so that people can view them without leaving their house. The article talks about a virtual tour of Kenya where you can see the elephants. The article then talks about Yosemite and how you can experience it without enduring the hike. Some other places that are mentioned in this article are Marseille, Liwa, Nasa, Venice and the Galapagos Islands.
Critical Thinking:
I find it really amazing how many issues with Google maps are reported everyday. That just shows me how many new roads are built and how many changes are made on a daily basis. In fact, according to “How Google Builds Its Maps-and What It Means for the Future of Everything by Alexis C. Madrigal, thousands of problems with the maps are reported everyday. The team fixes the problems within just a few minutes. This is amazing to me, the fact that they can add a new rode to the map within a few minutes. It seems so difficult to connect a new rode with all the other parts of the map.
YouTube Video Response:
I watched the video on Liwa, where you can virtually ride on elephants. Personally, I don’t think watching videos compares at all to actually visitng these places. Of course, traveling to these places can be expensive and not something that everyone can pull off, however I believe that there are many cool things to do locally. I am a big fan of the outdoors and experiencing things myself. I think a video like this is useful if you are debating on places to travel and have a video of both of your options but I wouldn’t consider it a replacement for getting out of the house and actually being there.
The first article, "How Google Builds its Maps", talks about the gap between the real world and the way technology portrays the real world. This article emphasized how complex Google mapping is and how much work is put into google mapping. The author noted that every road is "hand-massaged by a human". Google maps has to keep updated, so if there is a new addition to the road structure, people can be notified.
ReplyDeleteThe second article, "Google Maps: a decade of transforming the mapping landscape", describes the change in how the average person navigated trips. Before the convenience of Google Maps, people would use mapping services that would give a direct path one would have to take notes of to use on their actual trip. Google Maps, however, made it so that a driver could use the mapping and get step-by-step directions while in route.
The third article, "Seven Wonders of the World to Explore on Google Street View", describes how Google's advancement with mapping allows people to explore the world without actually physically being in those distant places. Before technology, and the advancement of Google Mapping, views of the world were not as readily available for people. The article mentions that everyday people can explore sites like Nasa, the Galapagos Islands, Venice, or just about anywhere one can imagine.
Response: Even though I was part of a generation born into an age of technological advancement, I still find it extraordinary that technology can perform mapping tasks as Google Maps does. Although Google Maps has made traveling very convenient and has saved me from being completely lost dozens of times, Google Maps may have a negative effect on society. Speaking for myself, I realize that I rely completely on the directions provided to me by Google Maps. If I were to have to navigate on my own, I don't think I can rely on my own sense of direction.
YouTube Response: I watched the video on the Galapagos Islands. I like the way the camera is positioned to mimic a what a person's view would be like if they were to explore the area. The way the camera was set up, and the way the camera navigated around the area gave me an idea of the layout. These virtual views provided by Google Maps are a great way to explore an area of interest. However, I doubt they are comparable to an actual experience of the area. Nevertheless, these types of views can be very useful in helping decide where one would like to take a trip, or to give a person a taste of an area foreign to them.
Summary: The first article essentially tells us of the importance of human knowledge and effort in making Google Maps usable. Even though Google Maps seems fairly straight forward, there is an underlying complexity involved in making the maps accurate to the real world. With only satellite imagery and algorithms, we are presented with an incomplete map—only freeways and more major roads are marked and differentiated, while some streets are missed or ignored. However, by using human knowledge, operators can edit the maps to include all roads, as well as information that cannot be gathered just from satellite imagery: one way streets, closed roads, and street signs, for example. It is the human touch that makes Google Maps as usable, accessible, and accurate as it is.
ReplyDeleteThe second article summarizes the growth and development of online maps, largely focusing on Google Maps’ ten year history. The article emphasizes Google Maps’ impact on the growth of digital maps—the author credits Google for introducing digital maps into the mainstream. Although Google wasn't the first company to present digital maps to consumers, it was the incorporation of Google Maps onto the first iPhone that sparked the public’s need for maps in everyday life. After Apple cut ties with Google, competition grew, and continues to grow, amongst different companies to provide the most accurate and user-friendly maps by offering different services and views. The future of digital mapping now lies in trying to map with greater precision by moving away from GPS tracking.
The third article is extremely brief but provides us with great examples of the power of digital mapping; by giving us seven examples of Google’s more in-depth Street View locations, we are given the opportunity to see global sights right from our computer screens. From elephants in Kenya to the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Street View gives users an intimate view of locations and experiences from around the world. Google accomplished this by strapping cameras onto cars, campers, and even camels. The information captured by these cameras is then put together to form a cohesive and immersive experience.
Critical Thinking: While reading these articles, a key idea that seem to be emphasized by all three is Google’s use of ground work and human attention to provide more detailed information about streets and locations, particularly through the use of their Street View cameras. I think it’s interesting to see a shift back to smaller-scale mapping away from relying on satellite imagery. In class, we’ve been looking at the impact of flight on the evolution of mapping, as well as the development of aerial imagery. From balloons to airplanes, I feel like there’s been a trend towards the use of aerial photography in order to provide the most accurate geographical information. However, in the modern age, the trend seems to have reversed—the first article in particular discusses the inaccuracy of relying only on satellite images to create maps. All three articles mention the importance of Street View in gathering specific information about locations on a smaller, more intimate scale. It is this level of detail that make digital maps usable.
Video Response:
I watched the last video on the tortoise hatchery and sanctuary on the Galapagos Islands and honestly, it was underwhelming. Don’t get me wrong, the amount of detail provided is extraordinary—you can walk along the walkway around buildings and even look inside the pens to see the baby tortoises. The detail is there, and the effort that Google is making in order to present these images is apparent and appreciated, but the experience has an overall lack of intimacy. Understandably, the experience isn’t seamless—you have to click arrows to move around, and the transitions aren't smooth. I expected a more immersive view, but in reality the video looks like what it is: a bunch of pictures (numerous and detailed for the scale that they’re at) stitched together. I expect that with a rise in VR, these experiences will be more breathtaking.
1.With every search we make on Google, finding our way from one location to the next, we are provided with clear instructions on how to get there. But behind the map on the screen we see, there is another one not so obvious to us: the internal map. The gap between the real world and the world Google maps is our cell phones. Maps aren't always accurate, sometimes there are streets added or subtracting, misrepresenting the real world. But to provide the best, and most accurate maps, Google drives over every road they have access to. By doing this, this allow for the "street view" tool where one can be using the map on their cell phone and transition from an planimetric view to a profile view. Driving around allows for Google to have knowledge of where the car has been, determining actual routes, and it provides Google with photos of every location driven. These photos can then later be used to fix and update maps with inconsistency with the real world.
ReplyDelete2.With the advancements made in technology, both smartphones and Google Maps has allowed its users look up directions whenever they want and wherever they want. Although world maps have been at access since 1993, it wasn't until recently that using online maps became so popular. With the use of satellite images, Google transformed the use of world maps. Street view allowed for a different perspective of maps. Also providing information such as road signs, that were not available from satellite views. Google Maps faces lots of different competitors, each with their strengthens.
3. Typically, to gather information, Google drives around in cars. But what happens when there aren't any roads to travel on, or it's impossible for the car to drive on a given terrain? A group of individuals are documenting the 109-mile stretch of the Cleveland Hills in the UK. They have backpacks with mapping cameras. Prior to mapping and our technology, these views would only be accessible to those who were with either physically capable or have access to those locations.
I remember as a child, prior to me or my parents having smartphones, we would always look up direction on the computer before we left and print them out to have access to while driving. Now with the use of smartphones and the advancements in online mapping, this is no longer a concern. But with every advancement made in technology, there tends to me drawbacks. For example, something I see with both of parents who are in their 50's, they have a hard time transitioning to this electric version of maps. It's difficult for them to pull up the app on their phone, plug the location in, and to follow the GPS directions. Even though they lived through the transition, it is more difficult for them to accept this new method because their brains have been wired to use paper maps and directions. There is also a concern for those in future generation. Advancements will continue to be made in technology and maps, and less maps will use paper. Although it is not a crucial skill to have, with this skill slowly disappearing makes individuals more and more dependent on their cell phones to get through each day.
Explore Liwa: This allows for those who do not have access to the location, resources, or physical abilities to be able share the experiences. Although riding camel in real life and experiencing it virtually, I image, are different, this provides people with general knowledge. For example, I have a better understanding of the area one would ride a camel. I liked how at any given point one can rotate the view, proving one to look around the area and really experience the the land. These types of videos may not be the typical map we are used to, but they still provide information about the routes taken and the surrounding terrain that a map of the city provides. Lastly, I found it interesting how the footage was captured. In the city, cars are used. In the Liwa, camels were used. Both represent the form of transportation used in those given areas.
1)Article Summaries
ReplyDeleteThe first article talked about how Google advanced from originally selling ads to becoming one of the most dominant search engines on the web. It later brought up the process in which Google makes its maps. The employees at Google work with partners to acquire data and then the Google employees “hand massage” the data until the quality is useful. Google also made use of using driver’s to collect two bits of information. The first is the route in which the car has to travel which is important because this is how directions are made when finding the fastest possible route. The second is more interesting but less significant. The driver’s put cameras on their cars and take street-view photographs when they drive which allows Google employees to incorporate traffic signs into their atlas. Google maps is made through human interaction with the physical environment and then converted to computer technology.
The second article talked about how online maps have been around since 1993 but it wasn’t until Google Maps came out that people started to use them. Yahoo had surprisingly developed a mapping system before Google but Google had taken it to the next level. Originally, Google had only developed a web map (which had already existed), but later they incorporated driving and transport directions as well as satellite imagery into their map. Satellite imagery at this time was noticeable because there were very few satellites available and they were expensive. Also, Google had mounted cameras on cars to take pictures for their street-view feature which became controversial. Google Maps became a lot more accessible when the first iPhone was released.
The third article brings up Google Maps in a way the other articles didn’t. The main difference is in the third article, Google Maps are being made for places that aren’t usually traveled by cars. In order to map these locations, they had a team of people skilled at crossing terrain using tactics such as rock climbing to map areas that are usually untraveled. Apart from rock climbing, attaching a camera to a camel to map the desert is also another tactic that Google used. Also, the article talked about how Google Maps can be used as an experience for the viewer. For example, a person can experience a walk with elephants without leaving their home by using Google’s street-view.
2) Critical Observation
I found the third article the most interesting because it touched upon experiences or lack thereof. I always find it funny when I watch a video on Youtube that involves seeing or doing something that not everyone has the opportunity to experience in person. This is because when you’re swimming with the whales or standing next to an elephant, you feel a completely different way than if you were watching it on a computer screen on your couch. There are only so many senses that you can feel when you’re looking at a screen. If I was swimming next to a gigantic whale, I would probably feel small and vulnerable next to this animal that we rarely ever get to see in person. Sure, everyone knows what a whale looks like because of pictures but fishermen and people who have been exposed to the animal in nature can really appreciate its beauty.
Video Response: I watched the Galapagos island video because I appreciate how diverse species are based on the geography of the island. I find it interesting that some of these places are off limits to the public but they still give us a view of how the environment is. I understand why it’s off limits to the public because of poachers. However, I feel like it should be mandatory for locations in nature to be mapped and not “bought” by people even if they’re benefitting our ecosystem through preserving species and caring for the environment. There has to be a line drawn between what should and shouldn’t be available for public viewing and I feel that areas of nature should be available to the public but places like my bedroom shouldn’t be. I’m happy that people give these online tours of locations that we aren’t able to go to.
Have you ever thought about how a map is put together? Personally, I hadn’t given it much thought before I started taking AMS 30. The first article offers a glimpse of what it’s like to work on modern maps like Google Maps. Making a map as enormous as Google Maps requires a large team of engineers and volunteers. The mapping team works year round to map new areas, update existing maps, and invent new ways to improve your average map.
ReplyDeleteThe second article gives a brief history of digital maps. It elaborates on how Google Maps came to exist and how they originally worked with Apple when they released the first iPhone. It is interesting that now they are competitors. The article also mentions that Yahoo and MapQuest also played a significant role in the advancement of digital maps. The invention of Google Street View was groundbreaking in that it introduced an entirely new perspective on mapping.
The final article describes how Google Maps is taking mapping to the next level. Recently, Google Maps has been mapping various places that might be difficult for some people to access. They also have been mapping certain locations and habitats in an effort to increase awareness of the need to conserve our environment. I think that this is an excellent way to use maps to better our world.
I really enjoyed reading the third article because it showed me the real applications of maps in today’s world. I think it’s an excellent idea to map various tourist locations and hard to reach areas with Street View. I think this innovation will allow people who don’t have the resources to travel to faraway places an opportunity to see what the outside world is like. This tool could be particularly beneficial in geography classes in high schools.
The video about the tortoises in the Galapagos Islands was particularly interesting to me. It demonstrated the relationship between Google Maps and conservation. This is an excellent way to keep viewers up to date with the latest news in conservation in an interactive and entertaining setting.
•Article 1: In the Article, “How google builds its maps and what it means for the future of everything”, the author explains the process google goes through in order to make the Google Maps we have now accessible and useful to us. People at google are coding every bit of the roads into representation that a person has already made judgements upon and using that to create an algorithm that will make that information given to anyone else. Google uses satellite images to recreate maps but when satellite images aren’t recent enough they use Street View cars that have recently driven down the road and tracks to show the new road perfectly. Google spends every day fixing problems with Google Maps with reports from users. Almost every detail is coded into the map making process, which is quite remarkable taking into account that they have mapped the whole world with such precision.
ReplyDelete•Article 2: In the Article, “Google Maps: A decade of transforming the mapping landscape”, the author explains how the rise of smartphones and digital maps have overtaken past ways of getting around. (paper maps) People don’t need to have a sense of direction anymore. It wasn’t until google maps that digital maps became popular. Lars and Jens Eilstrup went to google with their idea of google maps. Googles goal was to make a ‘browsable map of the entire world’. Street View cars were an idea created to take pictures of every street in the cities that included GPS. Google maps first phone appearance was on the first iPhone. There was rising controversy over the capturing information of private owner property without permission. There have been since then more rival mapping companies trying to compete over the best of the best mapping resource of accuracy.
•In the article 3, “Seven Wonders of the World to Explore on Google Street View”, the author speaks of how google has mapped more than just roads with Google Street View cameras with teams of people who volunteered. For example, they have Street View of the Kenya’s Samburu Park walking with elephants, climbing Yosemite, strolling through Marseille by night, Liwa desert by camel, inside NASA, on the water in Venice, and swimming with seals in the Galapagos Islands. By doing this, google hopes to be able to show people to appreciate the efforts they are going on to bring these places to us.
• Observation: I really didn’t know that google maps had to go through all this effort to map out as accurately as they can for the digital maps we have now. Honestly, I take the map for granted and use it as I please and never think for a second the actual process people might have gone through to make this digital map accessible and useful in your own hands anywhere you may be in the world. People now a days don’t fear getting lost because they can just use Google Maps to find their way back home, I know I do.
Youtube Video Response: I honestly, had no idea Google did more than just a search engine. I knew Google Maps existed, but I never knew they also wanted to bring to us the things that we may not be able to go see for ourselves. Being able to experience something even if it’s virtual, is better than not experiencing it at all. I find it amazing to know that Google is trying to make the world accessible to everyone. Seeing the true beauty in the world digitally may even want us to go venture out and see the world.
Summaries:
ReplyDeleteThe first article elaborates on how google maps were designed and built. The article first started talking about the early days of google as being a search company selling ads. Then the article started to connect between how the "what you're searching for" and "where you're searching from." They then explain how Google acquire data for the maps through partners and combine the information. They then end the article with how human intelligence is the greatest source of map there is.
The second article talks about the evolution of map use in the information era. The article opened with an anecdote of a step by step instructional guideline for roads to digital maps. The article emphasized Google Maps dominating appearance in the eyes of the consumer even though it wasn't the first one to do it. The article also talked about the controversy of the street view feature of google maps which might have trespassed on private businesses. The article also mentioned competitions from other companies such as Bing Maps and Open Street Map.
The third article lists 7 "wonders" that can be seen using google street view. The lists contain things that normally wouldn't use the normal equipments used in google cars that would travel via roads. The equipments were worn in backpacks in order to give a sense of hiking through national parks and mountains. Some were even carried by camels to display experiences in the desert. Some of the wonders feature animals as the main attraction, such as the elephants in Kenya's Samburu Park and the exotic animals in the Galapagos Islands.
Critic:
The first article's assertion of connecting what to where you're searching for seems lackluster. The article provided little reasons as to why "where has become almost important as what." The real reason that google may have expanded to generating an operating system for mobile is to make themselves more accessible to a wider audience. Google can also be described as being opportunistic with its dozens of mergers and acquisition of various companies that may have led them to join in the online map market.
Response:
Watching the Liwa video, it is interesting to see how they were able to successfully manage to put the equipment behind the camel's back. I'm curious on how much battery life the recording equipment had before they had to put on new batteries or if the equipment included solar panels for energy. The use of camels to explore deserts is a brilliant idea in order to show the world what it is like traveling in a desert. The video showed some of the limited plant life that was growing in the desert as well as the water-like ripples in the sand that normally forms.
The first article, “How Google Builds Its Maps – and What it Means for the Future of Everything”, discusses the technology and information Google is currently working with to build the most accurate, informative, and best world map. The article further discusses the man power, intelligence, and huge amount of information that is required to build a map like this. Hundreds of people are working on the map in order to not only keep it updated with new road developments, but to also improve the quality and accuracy of the map. The article stated that one of Google’s biggest goals for the future is to continue to make their maps as user friendly as possible by taking what people see in real life and incorporating that information in their map.
ReplyDeleteIn the second article, “Google Maps: a decade of transforming the mapping landscape”, the author explains the improvements that Google maps has made since the release of it in 2005. The article discusses how the idea of street view was created and how it was executed. Since this had never been done before, there was a lot of controversy over private information and images becoming a public entity that everyone could access. The article also discusses Google’s old partnership with Apple and how Apple and other companies built maps like Apple Maps, Bing Maps, and CityMapper to compete with Google. The end of the article discussed how in the future, Google hopes to not only improve the actual map, but also to improve people’s use of the map.
The last article, “Seven wonders of the world to explore on Google Street View”, discusses the seven incredible places that people can view through Google Street View in celebration of areas in Yorkshire, UK currently being mapped by Google. The first sight is Kenya’s Samburu Park where people can see elephants, zebras, and leopards while exploring the land. The second sight allows people to experience the beauty of Yosemite while watching people on their journey of climbing El Capitan. The rest of the sights include strolling through Marseille by night, traveling Liwa Desert by camel, experiencing NASA and the Kennedy Space Center, traveling on the water in Venice, and swimming with seals in the Galápagos Islands. Google is continuing to map more places around the world to allow people to see these beautiful sights without having to physically visit them.
In the first article, I thought it was really interesting how much man power and data creating a map requires. Using Google maps is second nature to me and many other people now days. Until this article, I had never thought about all the data that Google must have gathered in order to put this system together. It is incredible to me how Google maps can detect one way streets, dead ends, and new roads all over the world. I found it interesting how Google used Google's Ground Truthers to gather information on their own and create the best world map. A map of this magnitude and detail takes hundreds of people and a lot of data. This article changed my perspective on Google maps and gave me a lot more appreciation and awe of what Google maps has created.
The video that captured my interest the most was the video of Liwa Desert. I thought it was incredible how clear the images of the desert were. You could even see the ruffles in the sand. I have always wanted to visit a place like that, and it is exciting to me that I can virtually experience the beauty and awe of the Liwa Desert since I am not able to visit. Although Google’s street view doesn’t compare to physically being in the desert, many people are not able to travel to places like this, so it is amazing that Google has allowed people all over the world to be able to experience one of our world’s most captivating and beautiful places. This video makes me excited to see what new places and experiences Google will capture and allow viewers to see in the future.
1) In the article “How Google builds its Maps- and What it Means for the Future of Everything” Google maps has exploded because of the popularity of the growing use of mobile phones. Google is trying to close the gap of the information of the real world and the information that is online. Mapping requires a lot of data and engineering to get the right format and to make it a useful tool. Google maps street view is where many custom cars were driven all across the world to get an accurate image of the world. Google maps allow view codes for businesses allowing people to look places easily. Maps are not just paper and shapes anymore, now they have the intelligence of hundreds of people infused into it.
ReplyDeleteIn the article “Google maps: a decade of transforming the mapping landscape” digital maps have radically changed how people navigate the world and how we cannot get lost through the use of our smartphones. Google maps made digital maps more popular in the last 10 years even though Google was not the first to come up with the idea. Google wanted to create a map of the entire world where users could use it to find directions to places. Google maps street view also made the maps more detailed and in 2007 Google maps first appeared on the first iPhone making the digital map more portable. There were many issues that were brought up while the project was being developed such as home owners being worried that images of their property was being put online. However, Google maps have made the use of maps popular again among the modern public.
In the article “Seven Wonders of the World to Explore on Google Street View”, Google maps bring street views to users, letting people experience far off countries and natural landscapes in depth. Thanks to Google, we can go into the deserts, climb Yosemite, or even explore NASA. Google street views allow people to experience exciting scenery in first person.
2) Using Google maps has drastically changed the lives of many people. This makes online maps the go to for people to get a quick and reliable way to find directions to where they need to go. Since Google maps is mobile friendly, people will always have a accessible and portable GPS on them. Paper maps have died out and now electronic maps are the go to for people of all ages, whether it is to find directions to a friend’s house or get directions to find a restaurant in a different country.
3) Watching the video “Explore Liwa with Google Maps”, I felt that since I have never explored a desert in person, it was very different. The view was definitely breathtaking and amazing, being able to see the landscape so clearly like I was actually there. Watching the steps taken by the camel brought a new perspective and experience of viewing the desert.
1.
ReplyDelete7 wonders of the world:
This article covers the efforts of Google Maps and Google street view in bringing places like Venice and the Galapagos to the comforts of one’s own home. Through these trekking experiences, people can virtually visit these places without paying a penny or taking a car, plane, train, boat, etc. Through Google street view, viewers can get a 360-degree view of the locations that have been documented through pictures, and get a feeling of being there. People volunteer to wear/use the cameras to document visits to these places, then the images are compiled into a grand, life-like image.
How Google builds its maps:
Google maps are part of Google’s attempt to take physical information and make it both accessible and useful. In making the maps, Google collects data, engineers it to the right format, conflates it with other data sources, and formulates it into characteristic “Google Maps.” Street view cars track actual routes to be taken and can depict traffic patterns and observe street signs/signals. The switch from paper maps to apps like Google Maps is regarded as a grand change in map making. Google Maps is said to bring all of our mental maps together as information and process them into accessible, useful forms. It is also noted that Google takes into account the locations of individuals to cater to the app user, incorporating Google’s online information about an individual with their actual location.
Google Maps: a decade of transforming mapping landscape:
Google Maps was launched only ten years ago by a team of 50 people. This article claims that apps like this have connected the digital and physical worlds. The article briefly describes how the maps essentially started, which was based on Google Earth. Even though Yahoo digital maps and direction sites like map quest were at large, people didn’t take much notice until Google Maps appeared. Satellites were expensive, so street view became the mode of acquiring images and data. It made old-fashioned surveying a thing of the past.
2. As amazing as it is that we literally can see the world at our fingertips thanks to Google Maps (and the related ventures including Google Earth and the street view) this disturbs me a little in a couple of ways. Firstly, the idea of someone driving down my street and taking a running image, that could display me, my house, my family, pretty much anything, it all seems a little invasive to privacy to me. It’s one thing to have an aerial view of an area, but to be able to virtually be there in a moment in time, it’s both intriguing and slightly disturbing. Secondly, I fear that the extended use and reforming of software such as Google Maps, and the ability to see any area on a screen will ruin the excitement and desire for travel, the drive to visit different areas, and it will limit human interactions. We are living in an increasingly technological world, we often don’t communicate with people face to face anymore, or even voice to voice over the phone, it worries me that we are losing the appreciation for spending time with people and seeing the world and different places for ourselves. Nothing is more valuable than in person interactions and experience, and the convenience of such apps and the increasing intelligence and advances in technology rob us of this and make us forget its existence. I use digital maps all the time to get to places, but sometimes it’s nice to get lost, or just put down the phone and explore for yourself.
3. I watched the video from the camel crossing the Liwa desert. I felt like I was there, like I could have touched the sand and felt the heat of the sun. It was beautiful. I’ve never been to a desert, nor have I seen so many images at once of such a grand place. It’s weird feeling like I’m in the video but knowing that I’m here sitting at my computer in Davis, where it’s dark and cold outside.
In the article "How Google Builds Its Maps - and What It Means for the Future of Everything," Alexis C. Madrigal explores the operation of Google Maps and how it works. Basically, Google Maps is made up of an internal map which is often times referred to as "Ground Truth." This "Ground Truth" ensures that Google Maps are accurate. Google Maps started with data from others (like the US Census Bureau) and refined the discrepancies that data had. With years of experience and compiled data and the help of human intelligence, Google Maps can successfully continue to make maps this way. Google's main missions is to supply people with information through Geo data and to bring mental maps to life. Map making is being improved upon through applications such as MapMaker which allows people to publicly access and edit Google Maps.
ReplyDeleteIn "Google Maps: a Decade of Transforming the Mapping Landscape" by Samuel Gibbs, he records the evolution of Google Maps. Beginning with an idea, Google was able to partner with a team of 50 to launch itself as one of the most notable map producers. The article lists several technologies Google developed in order to refine its map making qualities such as Google Street View. Google Street View relied on company members to drive around with cars equipped with a special camera, surveying and taking pictures of areas which they would then turn to maps. As these technologies improve, the next ideas are to make maps indoors and to produce applications which pique geographic interest.
The article "Seven Wonders of the World to Explore on Google Street View" by Hannah Jane Parkinson enlightens its readers with some unfamiliar land areas which come to lie through Google Street View. Google Street View provides users with a way to view land areas, such as the Cleveland Hills, virtually. Through camera and trekking on feet, one can record and display video imaging of pretty much any area. The idea of Street View is to inspire others to gain an appreciation for that land and culture as well as to share experiences. These camera views allow people who might not be able to ever experience these landscapes to see them.
It was very interesting to read about an application, which I use basically everyday. I wasn't aware such a complex mapping system came about through human intelligence (such as Google Street View). It's amazing the lengths the people of Google went through to provide people with Geo data. Although I admire the amount of work put into map making, I believe the future of map making might be a bit iffy. Although the idea of MapMaker and indoor mapping is understandable, these applications could easily be hacked, falsified, and considered an invasion of privacy. MapMaker reminds me of a site like Wikipedia where any user could edit the articles. This has proved in the past to be very frustrating when users abuse this power and delete compilations of data only to edit it with false truths. This could easily happen to a product like MapMaker. Indoor mapping as well may not be well received. From the article "Google Maps: A Decade of Transforming the Mapping Landscape," it is seen that the documentation of private property led to lawsuits. A problem like this could easily arise with indoor mapping. I am intrigued to see how future mapping will progress.
I reacted to the video "Explore Liwa with Google Maps." The video was pretty amazing. I never even knew what Liwa was, let alone what was in it. Knowing that a human was able to walk that land with a camera to show everyone else what lay in front of him is mindblowing. Although this is a very amazing sight, I don't know how well Google Street View brings this area to justice. This is probably what Google intends though: to give the viewer just enough video and images so that he or she desire to experience it as well. All in all, it was a very interesting video, and I think it inspires the viewer to want to experience these journeys as well.
In the first article, How Google Builds It's Maps, talks about how google is working on constantly improving their world map. Google's plan is to make world information more like real life and accessible to everyone. Google's main competition is Apple when it comes to improving mapping information. However, Apple focuses more on the design and the appearance of the map where as google is focusing on improving the actual information. Google has a large team constantly improving their maps. The article also talks about how every piece of the world map they have today was "hand massaged by human."
ReplyDeleteThe second article, "Google Maps: a decade of transforming the mapping landscape," talks about how Google started Google Maps. Google maps contains street view and turn by turn directions. Google Maps first released on smartphones in 2007. They are constantly facing competition with companies that teamed up with Apple like Bing and Apple maps. The end of the article finally talks about how Google wants to not only improve the map itself but also improve how people use the map.
The third article, "Seven Wonders of the World to explore on Google street view," talks about how pretty soon, people will not even have to leave their houses to see different landscapes and views. A group of trekking volunteers led by Jonathan Steele were given street view cameras by google to map out a route stretching from Helmsley to the Filey coastline. The article states how this allows Google to showcase the world in the same way Google street view is used. The article showcases places like Kenya, Yosemite, Marseille, Liwa desert by camel, NASA, and etc.
The first article caught my attention because I am an avid user of Google Maps and I haven't put much thought into the mechanics behind the mapping. I knew mapping was not an easy task but I never really knew how much work and man power it took to create these maps. All the advanced features such as turn by turn directions and which road is the quickest to take definitely makes it one of the leading technological maps. After reading this article I have learned to appreciate Google Maps and the technology behind it.
The video that caught my attention the most was the Liwa Desert. It just amazes me how so much sand can accumulate and create such beautiful and vast dunes. The effect in the video made it much more appealing to the eye. I really liked how they filmed the footsteps in the sand because it shows that people have actually been there and seen the view. The time lapse give you a general idea of how large the desert is and how there is so much more to see.
Article 1: This article is discussing the idea that there is a little more than meets the eye when it comes to google maps. It discusses that there are other complex processes that go into the maps we use almost every day. We learn that google has the large challenge when it comes to their maps. They have to take all of the physical information of the world and put it into one program if you will.The article also mentions how there is a vast amount of effort that goes into something we may take for granted. The fact that any complaint or problem associated with the maps are taken into account and attempted to be corrected immediately.
ReplyDeleteArticle 2: This article talks about the history of google maps and how it became one of the most commonly used apps ever. Google maps was first introduced to the world on February 8, 2005. The goal of the inventors was to create a easily accessible and universal map for everyone. Google maps first became a part of the smartphone world in 2007. If these maps are compared to google maps today, we can see how much development has been made.The article closes by discussing the competition google maps face and what the future holds for the commonly used maps.
Article 3: This article is concerned with google street view and various locations that should be viewed using this view. The locations are all different in their own way and stretch to the far reaches of the earth. These ares include traveling to such ares as Kenya, Yosemite, Marseille, Liwa, NASA, Venice, and the Galapagos Islands. These locations are chooses because of the incredible perspective one can get through google street view. This article shows how the development of google maps has changed things. Now people are able to experience incredible views and sights through a first person view, even from home.
I have a slight critique on the third article. I do feel that google street view is an amazing thing and offers a tremendous experience to its viewers. However, it can only offer a limited experience at all times. Seeing something through a screen is one thing, being there live and in person is another thing entirely. The article proposes the usefulness of google street view and the how it can change peoples lives. This may be true, but it can not serve as a substitute to the real experience. Seeing someone walking through Venice through a first person view on a screen is not the same as physically walking through the streets of Venice. Although google street view can do some amazing things, it can never replace the experience or feeling one has when they are physically doing these things.
The Liwa video is pretty amazing. I personally have never been to a desert and have never experienced that before. The video shows a brief first person experience of the view of a camel in the desert. This view is something some people may never see in person, but through google street view, a similar view can be identified. This view of Liwa shows the vastness of the earth and the vastness of the journey of the animals and people there. This video also shows just how far technology has come and how developed the world is. 20 years ago something like this would've seemed hard to imagine. This goes to show how mapping and the development and progress it has is changing the world everyday.
1)Article 1: It is amazing to me how much work goes into Google Maps. Every single image is meticulously altered by hand to make sure it matches the real world. These details often are crucial, as people put faith in maps every day. Google also has an incentive to make their maps better, to improve data for business purposes. This is why Google has people everyday working on maps.
ReplyDeleteArticle 2: Googles street view is truly an amazing technology. I wonder if the initial experiments using a handheld camera yielded promising results, because it seems like this wouldn't work too well. I was surprised to see streetview started only a year after google maps was created. It showed how progressive Google was in developing its technologies, and how Google knew they were already behind in a promising market that they had to catch up in.
Article 3: Google has truly expanded their street view technology to allow people to see different parts of the world. This enhances the educational capabilities of Google Maps. It also provides a fun element to a somewhat useful but dry tool. Google is pushing the limit to what Map technologies are doing and in doing so is on the forefront of digital mapping discovery.
2) The third article provides a new viewpoint on Googles technology. By mapping places people would otherwise be unable travel to, Google provides a surreal journey to another world. The educational value of this is tremendous, and it keeps maps interesting to draw children to geography. By doing this, Google is making sure the passion for Geography and Cartography is never lost, and is instilling a true love for our world surrounding us. What started as a small project developed into one of the most versatile daily tools.
3) The Liwa video shows a truly tremendous landscape. I was surprised at how much weaving through the desert the camel did. I would think they would have a more designated route as to not get lost. Nonetheless the rolling sand dunes were breathtaking. The camel with the giant camera apparatus on its back was comical as well.
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ReplyDeleteAMS Makeup Assignment
ReplyDeleteArticle 1: How Google Builds its Maps-And What It Means for the Future of Everything
I thought that this article was very interesting because it shows how something that we think is so simple and that we use in our everyday lives is actually extremely complex. Google maps is used by millions of people everyday and we take for granted having accurate routes and maps at our fingertips. I think the most interesting part was how they have used computer programming to make the system think how a human would need it to, especially when it come to searching for keywords. Also the amount of precision that is used when it comes to every aspect of a city being mapped out is astounding.
Article 2: Google Maps: A Decade of Transforming the Mapping Landscape
This article was also very interesting because it shows how much the idea of google maps has transformed over the last 10 years. I think that one of their smartest ideas was the use of street view where they used cars installed with gps and photographic sensors in order to take pictures of streets from a ground view and piece them all together. Most maps that we use have a bird's eye view or a god’s eye view, but google maps has made the transformation to a view that we tend to see everyday which is more accessible and realistic. We used to have to print our step by step instructions in order to get somewhere that was unfamiliar, but now we have that in the pockets of almost every person in the world.
Article 3: Seven Wonders of the World to Explore on Google Street View
I think that the third article is super interesting because I did not know the extent of what google has tried to map out. I think one of the most interesting methods they used to map out something was the desert by a camel. The fact that they have to use people or animals to map out special locations shows how much effort they have to put in. We take for granted what we can search on the internet and how we can see pictures of beautiful places in the world without even having to go there.
Overview:
After reading all three articles I realized how much technology has changed the ideas and concepts of mapping in general. Mapss used to be flat pictures on a piece of paper and were usually from a bird’s eye view, but now we have maps in 3d or from a street view on our phones. Maps used to be extremely rare and valuable, and now everyone has easy access to them from our smart phones. Maps have developed to not only showing us pictures but now typing in our destination and getting step by step on how to get there.
Youtube Video Response:
I decided to watch the video on the Galapagos Islands. This video was really cool because not only did it show images of the beautiful landscape and scenery, but also of many of the animals that live on the island such as the large tortoises and blue footed birds. These youtube clips made by google maps show how maps have developed from paper images to moving pictures of landscapes through videos. The Galapagos Islands are very far away and google has given people the chance to see its wonders through the click of a button.
Article 1: The first article was about Google and how the corporation is constantly altering Google Maps. To think about how much of or world has been drawn out by this singular company is rather baffling, and the amount of work that goes into the images themselves warrants our appreciation. I know for a fact that we take this program for granted on a day-to-day basis, imagining what our lives would be like without our own personal GPS by our side 24/7 is rather difficult to do. It is amazing to think about how much map making has improved by means of modern technology. If only the ancient world explorers knew what was to come.
ReplyDeleteArticle 2: The second article is call "Google Maps: a decade of transforming the mapping landscape" and it is written by Samuel Gibbs. Essentially, this article is summarizing the development of google maps, and how a team of 50 people could change the world in a mere ten year time period. The article also went over how google is continuing to create new mapping technology, innovating things such as Google Street View. We are also reminded that google has mapping competition from companies such as Apple Maps or Citymapper, and that even though google is generally known for its quality, that there are sometimes bugs to be worked out. Google still remains one of the most powerful corporations, but we are reminded that even a seemingly well-oiled powerhouse can never be perfect.
Article 3: The third article is called "Seven Wonders of the World to explore on Google street view" by Hannah Jane Parkinson. This article discusses the production of Google Street View, and how it can be used to experience different places all over the world. With this technology we can see places like Kenya, Yosemite, Marseille, Liwa, NASA, Venice, and the Galapagos Islands--all one would need is internet access.
Response: I have a weird feeling about some of the topics brought up in the third article. Even though it is a marvelous feeling to be able to "experience" the world through your computer screen, I feel as though something gets lost through the images. I would love to be able to travel, its one of my dreams, but turning to the internet just doesn't give you the cultural experience or a full appreciation for the beauty surrounding you. When we think about seeing the world through a screen all the time, I can't help but compare us to the lazy chubby people portrayed in Wall-E.
Video Response: I watched the Liwa video, and was taken aback by the barren landscape that the camel was going through. I must admit that this a place I probably would never go and experience in person, but seeing those images makes one appreciate the diversity of our planet. Maybe things like this will make our borders a little less rigid and have less isolation between each country.
AMS 5 Discussion MakeUp Assignment:
ReplyDeleteSummaries:
“How Google Builds Its Maps – and What it Means for the Future of Everything” explores the technology Google is working with to build the world’s most advanced maps. Behind the Google Map lies an increasingly complex system that is developed and implemented through a project known as “Ground Truth”. The article explains how technology is increasingly trying to merge what we see in the real world and the online world. Google is working constantly to better understand the logic of human transportation systems and reflect that in their maps to make them more user friendly. Alexis Madrigal states “Google’s strategy is to bring all our mental maps together and process them into accessible, useful forms.” (Madrigal). As we look forward as society advances, the presence and influence of Google will continue to grow and expand.
The second article, “Google Maps: a decade of transforming the mapping landscape” explains how Google Maps has revolutionized the digital mapping world since its creation 10 years ago. Back in 2004, two bothers approached Google with an idea to create a web app containing features such as search, scroll, and zoom. Soon after, Google acquired their company along with another one, and began the production of Google Maps. Google Maps was not the first digital map to enter the market, but it played a massive role in the transformation and popularization of digital maps. Street View was one of Google Map’s most noteworthy features, which was comprised of pictures taken in every street using a custom made camera mounted car. In 2007, Google Maps appeared on the first iPhone. Today, many digital maps are available, such as Apple Maps, Bing Maps, and CityMapper. The article concluded talking about the future of digital maps, which will be based more on the usage of the map than its content. These maps will make locations more relevant to us, and will personalize the map experience as we know it.
The article “Seven wonders of the world to explore on Google Street View” looks into 7 beautiful sights provided from Google Street View. At this moment, The North York Moors and the 109-mile stretch of Cleveland way are being mapped by a group of Google Street View volunteers. In celebration of this accomplishment, this article reveals seven beautiful sights captured by Google Street View. The first is Samburu Park in Kenya, which allows people to see elephants, leopards, and zebras. Next is climbing El Capitan, in Yosemite National Park, where people can see what it is like to climb the 3000-foot mountain. For a more romantic experience, Google offers strolling through Marseille by night. The rest of the seven beautiful sights include traveling the Liwa desert by camel, visiting the Nasa Kennedy Space Center, experiencing the water in Venice, and swimming with seals in the Galapagos Islands. Google Street View offers an amazing experience for people to travel across the world by just using their computer.
my assignment is continued on my follow blog post below!
continuation of my assignment!
ReplyDeleteCritical Thinking:
When reading the first article, “How Google Builds Its Maps- and What it Means for the Future of Everything”, I was highly interested in the discussion of Google’s ever expanding influence on the world as a whole, as it is an observation I have experienced throughout my life. Many years ago, Google was thought of as solely a company that provided a search engine, but today we see its penetration is many different markets. My personal relationship with Google has drastically changed, as I used to use Google just as a search engine but now use it to store all of my documents, house my emails, and map my directions. As society is evolving, Google is growing and developing advancements that are increasingly present in citizen’s lives. If we look at the evolution of Google Maps alone, it is a completely different product than it was when it first was introduced to the world. Its features today exceed any consumer’s wildest dreams about what it could accomplish. A statement from the article I found highly interesting and thought proving was when sci-fi novelist Robin Sloan stated, “In 50 years, Google will be the self-driving car company (powered by this deep map of the world) and, oh, P.S. they still have a search engine somewhere.” Google is constantly breaking new ground in their mapping and exceeding all consumer expectations. Throughout my life I have been able to observe the rapid growth of Google, and completely agree with this article’s predictions about the company for the future.
YouTube Video:
The YouTube video I chose to watch was on the Liwa desert, where you can experience riding a camel. This video offers amazing clarity, and the Google camera captures the most breathtaking and surreal views. However, I do not think it is entirely the same as visiting the place itself. Watching the video made me feel like I was exploring Liwa in some sense, but is not the same as actually being there. Even though there are drawbacks, it was crazy to me how much a video can make someone feel in some way as if they are in an entirely different place. It may not be the same as traveling, but the video shows how incredible and groundbreaking the Street View technology is. People from anywhere in the world have access to videos such as this one, and can feel as though they are traveling to and experiencing a completely different world than what they are accustomed to.
atlantic article
ReplyDeleteGoogle is one of the powerhouses of electronic mapmaking due to the massive amount of information that they deal with everyday. Using various technologies and apps, they are able to translate the physical world into the electronic world. It takes a lot of manpower and the collectivity of human intelligence in order to make maps as well as they do. Google maps are the evolution of paper maps; they are the future of maps and map making.
theguardian article
Navigating has changed so much from the days of printing out directions on how to get to places. Nowadays, digital maps and the appearance of smart phones have rapidly altered the way we get to places. Especially Google maps, having a goal of making the whole world browsable. With things like street view, google maps on smartphones, and competition, the development of electronic maps accelerated. At the moment, we are focused on making amazing digital maps, but the future will eventually lead to the evolution of the way we use them.
seven wonders article
Using Google’s street view technology, various travelers were able to help Google gain physical data about the regions they traveled in. These include places like the Liwa desert, Marseille, and even El Capitan in Yosemite. It allows people to visually experience these journeys that people went on from the comfort of their own homes. But Google could not have done this alone. The obtaining of these seven wonders on streetview was only made possible through the help of several people.
The fact that digital maps have totally transformed how we journey throughout the world had totally slipped my mind. I remember the days of when I was younger, hearing my mom tell directions to my dad from the passenger seat of the car. Sometimes my mom still asks me to print out directions. Digital maps have pretty much made these types of directions obsolete. But we can’t forget that some people don’t have smart phones and are unable to use those kind of digital maps, so printing out directions may still be useful.
I really enjoyed the “explore liwa” video. For me, there is something about deserts that I find so majestic, so romantic. I associate it a lot with ancient worlds and myths and think it is wonderful that I am able to get a sense of their travel through the desert from the comfort of my own home. It is also a plus that I don’t have to withstand the desert heat. Of course I think experiencing the views in person is a much grander experience, but that would take time, resources, and planning that is not so readily available. So while it is awesome to be able to see these kinds of views right away, it does not replace the actual experience of viewing it in person. It is simply another way to view the world.
1. In the first article, “How Google Builds Its Maps - and What It Means for the Future of Everything,” we learn how Google generates its maps through both the work of digital techniques (computer-generated algorithms/programs and satellite images) and a more simple, human-centered approach (i.e., driving on the road and taking pictures). Once collected, the data gathered by satellites and Google employees is analyzed, checked for accuracy, and meshed together to create a cohesive view of a landscape. Driving and walking routes are outlined, the locations of businesses are recorded, and street signs are interpreted by Google's software to generate as accurate a view as possible. The author explains that an undertaking like this takes the combined effort of many people and the latest computing technologies.
ReplyDelete2. The second article, “Google Maps: a decade of transforming the mapping landscape,” discusses the emergence of Google Maps in the 1995 and what it meant for accessible mapping technology and digital maps. Google was the first company to start mapping large areas of land using cars with 360 degree cameras, adding to their data gathered by satellites. The future of the digital map, as argued by the author of the article, lies in new mapping technology that will generate indoors maps without the use of GPS.
3. The third article, “Seven Wonders of the world to explore on Google Street View,” explores the phenomenon of mapping beautiful and unique locations through strapping a camera to the back of a camel or enterprising mountaineer. Google Maps mapped the Liwa desert, Kenya’s Samburu National Reserve (and captured wild elephants on film), a climb up El Capitan in Yosemite, among other fantastic places. Google even partnered up with an advertising agency and digital producers to record a tour guide of Marseille, France, at night. Google often goes to these new places to support a charity or foundation, or as part of a mapping project with Google Earth Outreach.
I think it’s interesting that Google Maps (rather than mapping technologies by other companies, although Apple Maps is starting to become more commonplace these days among iOS users) have so completely dominated the digital maps market. The amount of work the company and its employees put into mapping the surface of the world is staggering. I use Google Maps very frequently in my life as a student, and honestly, I think I’d be hard-pressed to find my way in new areas of Davis without it. Google so dominates the internet browser and search engine market, and has influence in so many other fields and markets, it almost seems impossible to escape the company’s reach unless you don’t own a smartphone or computer. I also wonder about the possibility of self-driving cars (if ever designed and put into production, I’d have to say that Google would be the first to do it), and even if such a thing would or should be possible. I don’t particularly like driving, but the idea of trusting something so important to a network of super computers makes me uncomfortable.
I watched the virtual tour of the Galapagos sea turtle hatchery and reserve for the video section of this assignment. The way the photos visually moved forward through physical space really made me feel like I was there, though I don’t think a video can really capture all the magic of a place. The motion blur honestly also made me feel a little sick, but I understand why they did that (to make it feel more like the viewer was physically moving through the reserve). I appreciate the idea of filming experiences from the viewer’s perspective, because it’s a way of making these far-off locations accessible to anyone with a computer. I can say with confidence that I’ll probably never get to visit the Galapagos islands any time soon, so it’s nice to be able to experience it in some way, even if it’s just through a computer screen.
Article One
ReplyDeleteThe article describes how digital maps act as an interface between online and offline worlds. As smart phones became more prevalent people wanted to be able to access information from anywhere and Google, an information company, had to adapt. A description of how the steps of constructing a digital map is given. Google’s job is essentially to code judgements some person has already made on how to drive into a computer so that judgement can be made faster.
Article Two
A brief overview of the history of Google maps is given. Google acquired two companies, Where 2 Technologies and Keyhole, as the foundation of the Google Maps project. The article notes that Google was not the first to engage in digital mapping and was actually behind Yahoo and MapQuest in 2004. The article mentions how Street View, launched in 2006, became one of the most controversial but popular features. Google Maps became an integral part of the smart phone when it debuted on the iPhone in 2007. In 2012 Apple began to compete with Google with their own digital mapping. The article concludes with talking about the future of maps beginning characterized by new sensors to replace GPS.
Article Three
The article describes how Google Street View allows you to see wonders of the world without even stepping outside. The article discusses several examples of the applications of Street View. The article shows images of Kenya’s Samburu National Park, climbers on Yosemite’s El Capitan, a night walk in Marseille, the Liwa Desert, NASA, Venice, and the Galapagos Islands.
Article Ideas
One of the most interesting points of the second article was that Google was not actually the first company to develop digital mapping or even turn-by-turn directions. Even though Google was not the first it is certainly the most influential now. I am somewhat critical of the third article’s suggestion that you can “visit” areas like Guisborough woods or Cleveland Hills simply by invoking the power of Google. I think Google Maps are great but not a substitute for actually visiting a place in the physical world.
Video Response
I watched Explore Liwa with Google Maps. The upbeat and hopeful music combined with imagery of the expansive and even beautiful desert had me quickly intrigued. I thought it was interesting how the focus of the images was entirely on landscape rather than people. This focus almost led the video to portraying the United Arab Emirates as an empty desert, save for the lone Google employee and his camel.
For the first article they were talking about googles goal in mapping. It talks about how we are already constantly trying to bridge the gap that exist between reality and the virtual world and digital maps is one of the bridges. Many people use digital maps to find physical places in the world. It continues to talk about how much human work goes in to making a map such as google map. Even though they can have satellite views which do a lot of the beginning works of the map, the digital version of the map might not be entirely correct. So it takes hundreds of people just to do a small portion of google maps. Each person has to put in their human input into the map.
ReplyDeleteThe second article talk about how google maps came to be. It tells of how things used to be you used to have to print out directions to follow certain signs in the physical world and evolved to more of using our phones or a GPS to navigate. Google maps have also introduced street view and have gone over 5 million miles taking picture of the streets which provide a different prospective than an overhead view because it can show if you cannot turn left here or there is a stop sign there. It also talks about competition how more and more companies are jumping into the market of map making but many do not understand the difficulties involved. The future of map making the article says is not the map itself but how you use the map. For example, the app that tells users of nearby Landmarks.
The last article talks about how the idea of street view can create a prospective and an experience that a normal average joe might not be able to experience. These experience can now be shared with the rest of the world where people can’t drive such as atop the mountain of El Capitan in Yosemite, or riding camel back in Liwa desert. These video bring an awareness to the user. Perhaps after watching one of the videos it could allow them to feel inspired to help the preservation of endangered species that they would otherwise not be interested to get involved with.
It is interesting that humans want to relate the digital world to the real world and want to draw that gap, so much so that we are willing to collaborate in the efforts to produce google map. To think that google maps is always collecting data to improve upon their maps is a little bit insane, because as the digital world is realizing more and more about the real world though hours and hours of programing and pictures taken from the street but at the same time more and more humans are becoming interdependent on these digital maps for navigating in the physical world.
That is why I found it is interesting that they point out that a human with no sense of direction and that might have a hard time finding a destination on his own but when he uses google maps to navigate from place to place he has no trouble. I also wanted to point out that one can use google maps also as a memory inhibitory. You can look up places that you lived at during a child and these images can help you remember your childhood.
The Liwa desert video just showed how big the desert really is. In places like these cars are not a viable option. Even if you have a car that can handle sandstorm and thing of that nature you might run out of gas during your travels. Traveling on camel is one of the only ways to go, old fashioned as it may be it provides you with a reliable means of transportation. That being said I thought that the actual footage that came from the camel wasn’t that great and it did not give you the experience of being atop one of these animals.
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ReplyDelete1. First Article: The article talks about the amazing process of collecting information and coding this information. It talks about the technology own by Google like their self driving car or their operating system. The most important part of the article is probably about how through thousands of programmers code the data collected to form map that is useable for their users
ReplyDeleteSecond Article: The article talk about the evolution of online mapping from different big competitors in the industry. It talks briefly about the history of what is to become one of the most used feature on a Smartphone. It also mention the start of Google street view and some argument against the beginning of this service.
Third Article: Talks about the Seven Wonder of The World through the view of a camera that can be view online from your computer. It just goes to show the scope of the project created by Google and how interesting it can be
2. It is interesting to see how Google transform from a company that mainly is behind a search engine into a database powerhouse. I think they are stepping in the correct direction because the logical step to take when you accumulated data through the years is to distribute this data to the world in friendly map app or interesting way such as though of the seven wonder of Google map. I am in awe when I think of the amount of works that goes in to create such project for everyone to enjoy.
3. YouTube video: The Galapagos island video is very fascinating. It is as though you are walking through the Galapagos island when you view the video. The camera is position at human height to cover the fact that you are not really there, but it is hard to not be in awe of the scenery of the Galapagos island that the video portrays.
Article one is about how the Google Maps are put together. It is a hard task to take all the information in the world and put it on a map that is accessible and useful to whomever is using the map. Maps are used more than any other apps. Google is currently battling Apple about the future of mobile phones, but luckily google has an advantage in information, geo date and the apps built around it. The article goes on to talk about the guys experience when at the Google Maps office, and the process of how exactly the maps are made. A lot of data analyzing is done, and processed to make the maps easier and more accessible to read.
ReplyDeleteArticle two starts off saying that 10 years ago, step by step instructions printed in the hand of your passenger was how people navigated. But in 2004 two brothers went to google with their idea to make an app that had zoom able, searchable maps within it. This app went on to become google maps, which launched in 2005 in the US. Later in 2006 “Street View” was added to Google Maps, this was done by a camera mounted on a car. Google Maps appeared on Apples first smartphone in 2007. Since then, Google Maps has added satellite navigation, restaurant ratings and traffic updates. Now Google Maps has competition with other map apps.
Article three is about how Google Maps is starting to map a 109-mile stretch of Cleveland Way and North York Moors using Google Street View. Because of this they are saying people will never have to go to these places, instead they can just view them on google maps. Other places of the world, that are not on direct roads are also being mapped such as in Kenya’s Samburu Park, where you can go on a virtual tour of the park. Another journey has been mapped including climbing El Capitan, Yosemite. The article covers many other off the beaten path places that google maps is starting to capture.
I enjoyed reading these three article about Google Maps because I personally use and rely on google maps almost everyday. I have always wondered how they are able to get such detailed imaging and accuracy in all their maps, but I never knew how much of a process it took until after reading the first article. I found articles two and three the most interesting because they had to do with the Street View on google maps. Its crazy how many miles the cars working for google maps had to drive to capture all the images to put the street view together, but I think all the effort is definitely worth it. Street View is a one of a kind thing, and can be very helpful when wanting to get a view other than an aerial view.
I watched the video about the Galapagos Islands. I was very intrigued when watching this video because it was like I was watching a movie. Its crazy how Google Maps can capture pictures and make it into one flowing scene like that. The images were crystal clear and it was like I was actually in the Galapagos islands. Its cool how Google Maps is going off the normal roads and areas of the word, because now with just the click of an app, people have access to images, and maps of the entire world.
Summaries:
ReplyDelete1. In this article, it talks about the basic programming of google maps. This includes it speed limits, turns, and traffic. It goes into the actual steps for how they create the maps. They use lots of satellite footage, but its not always accurate. They also use street footage, which can be very helpful. After fixing the details by hand, the results are much more accurate. This is then inputted into the system and created with computer technology. They are constantly improving, editing, fixing, and updating their maps.
2. This article begins by discussing how difficult it was to find our way and getting around maps the old fashioned way. But 10 years later, google maps was launched changing everything. Google was very committed to this project with the use of satellite imaging. Street View cars helped create these maps, providing more accurate details. Google was competing against many other companies, but still came up on top. They were put into iPhones in 2007, making it a lot easier for others to access.
3. In this article, google maps is used to explore a place where cars can't go. Instead, they use backpackers to survey the area. They explore Kenya, Yosemite, deserts, Venice, and other places. This is important because people who use google maps can explore these places without actually having to go anywhere.
Critical thinking:
I liked the third article the best because it gives you a new experience that you haven’t seen before. It proves that technology can become so advanced that it makes you believe you are in a different part of the world, when you actually aren’t. It helps you connect to the outside world, and can be helpful to many people that can’t afford to travel and it could also be used as a teaching tool.
Video response:
Galapagos turtles: I really liked this video because I actually felt like I was walking through the breeding centers and it provided a moving motion. It was also cool that it showed you the process of how the turtles are breed and then transported to their natural habitat. The virtual experience would be nothing compared to the experience you would have if you were there in real life.
Summaries:
ReplyDeleteArticle one, “How Google Builds Its Maps—and What It Means for the Future of Everything” more information is given on what happens behind the scenes of Google Maps. The articles discussed the coding and teams of engineers that innovated and worked around roadblocks, such as inaccuracies on the map and satellite. Some important technology that Google uses includes sign recognition to know the location of businesses, advanced and developing technology such as this leads people to generally believe that Google has a long and innovative future ahead of them.
Article two, “Google Maps: a decade of transforming the mapping landscape” focuses on the development of Google maps and how navigating has changed from ten years ago to present day. The articles talks about how the idea was initially introduced and then how it took off. When it was released the application took off and it made some features noticeable that were not noticed before in other navigating applications. Finally, the story of street view was told and about how google car was integrated.
In article three, “Seven wonders of the wold to explore on Google Street View” locations are given that can be seen or are in the process of being developed on Google Maps street view. Locations include places such as Venice, the Galápagos Islands, and Yosemite. These places are offered or will be offered through street view so people who do not have access to them otherwise can get a stimulating visual experience, and also without paying the money and effort of travel.
Critical Observation
I think that the ideas presented in “Seven wonders of the world to explore on Google Street View” were very interesting and the inclusion of these places, even though not practical places that people navigate through in their everyday lives, is a great resource. I think that giving the public access to the visual beauty of these places informs them on different landscapes as well as encourage people to go whom may have not had the idea otherwise. And in regards to Google Maps giving people a sense of direction who otherwise have no sense of direction, I feel that it is still important for people to not solely rely on Google Maps and to learn more about navigation in general.
YouTube Video Response
While watching the video Explore Liwa with Google Maps I felt awed by the elegant patterns in the sand being swept by the desert wind. I thought the camel was a beautiful addition to the background, and in addition I found the tall camel on the camel’s hump funny and a bit out of place, however I felt that it added to the experience of the viewer to be viewing the desert from a camelback perspective. I felt that the camera angle captured the depth and the how the desert seemed to never end with the many sand dunes.
Summaries:
ReplyDelete1) How google builds its maps & what it means for the future
- There are so many complex techniques into creating a good and slightly accurate map. There are two maps Google uses, the actually map that us civilians use and the deep map that is “top secret.” The deep map lacks different functions but it is very precise because it includes the logic of places. Google maps itself, does a lot more than that for the end user because it includes traffic information, freeways, and other road conditions. In order to build a map, you need to gather enough data and improve it by using engineering techniques to produce high quality. Google uses cars to drive around and collect street view data so that their maps are more accurate. Google is really resourceful because of its geographical information and location data which is extremely valuable in our society.
2) Google Maps: a decade of transforming the mapping landscape
- Google has many competitors because of its launch on digital mapping with the help of satellite imagery. Satellite imagery was hard to obtain back then because of how scarce and expensive it is. Luckily, Google maps came up with the idea of having a car that had a Dslr camera mounted on top to collect pictures of every street. It also includes sensors so that google can identify the different routes. Making mapping more knowledgeable and helpful, unlike satellites, it can actually pick up road signs and house numbers. Also, Google has directed their software to cellular devices, making it more convenient and essential for people all around the world.
3) Seven wonders of the world to explore on Google Street View
- Google uses different forms of transportation to acquire street views of different places around the world. We are able to see beautiful locations such as the liwa dessert and Venice. All thanks to cars, travelers and even animals played a huge role in the making.
Observation:
In the Google Maps: a decade of transforming the mapping landscape article, it was interesting to see some of the mapping context we use in class. For an example, it mentioned that aerial imaging and bird eye view was one of the best improvements because it allowed people to see streets and building at a certain angle. It changes our perspective of what we see and what we know.
Response from one of the three YouTube videos:
In the featured video of the Liwa dessert, there was a camel that had a camera strapped to its body. As it traveled through the desert, it picked up many images from different angles, which is very accommodating for the end user. Users at home can visualize these wonderful locations without even leaving the home. That makes you think how advanced our mapping system / technology is and so far it is getting better. The ongoing fight between companies that create maps, are only improving our perspective of maps today. Overall this video was pretty interesting!
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ReplyDelete1. The first article discusses how Google Maps is made and works. Because Google Maps is so readily available, people tend to forget that actual people had to map every road, sign, and other information that gets you from point A to point B. Some routes have been made by programming them into Google Maps, while others have formed from people using them in their own lives. Google Maps is constantly growing, adapting to include every small sign or unpaved road. Google Maps is bridging the gap between real life and technology by putting information that used to only be available in the physical world into the palm of everyone's hands.
ReplyDeleteGoogle Maps was not the first program to create online mapping, but it did reinvent how it worked. It gave turn-by-turn directions in real time on the webs, which other programs did not quite do. Google Maps also was revolutionary in that it created Street Maps. This created a map that actually showed real buildings, signs, and markings. This was problematic in that it gave away personal information without permission, but it was revolutionary nonetheless. Google Maps paved the road for advancements in mapping technology, and it will continue to make advancements in the future.
Google Maps has brought Street View to several beautiful places around the world. These places are generally not easily accessible to the average person, so being able to view these locations with a view as if you were there allows for a new perspective on famous sights. Rather than viewing flat two-dimensional photos of these locations, Street View allows you to see these places from any angle, as if you were there. Even though you are only seeing these locations through a screen and it is not quite the same as seeing them in person, Street View still provides a new and thrilling opportunity for people to explore amazing locations.
2. I find it very interesting that the first articled addressed the making and improvement of Google Maps because it made me realize how much work goes into it. People take for granted how easy it is to type in a location and instantly be routed to different ways to reach that destination. I personally have never thought about how much effort goes into making Google Maps to make it accurate and reliable. People have to draw out and include every road and sign, and every day new additions are being made. Reading about how people physically add in and shape every road makes me appreciate how much work they do so that I and nearly everyone else in the world can easily access directions in our everyday life.
3. Watching "Explore Liwa with Google Maps," I felt there was something physically real about what I was seeing. Even though I know I am viewing pictures on a computer screen, seeing Liwa from another person's perspective as they walked around gives you a sense of actually being there. The video moved how a person would walk - not completely steady - so watching it gave a sense of being in that position. Being able to capture places like this will allow people to view and think of places as if they could imagine themselves there rather than viewing pictures or video that separates the viewer from the location.
The first article discusses how Google creates the maps that everyone today relies on to navigate the world. With maps detailing the entire nation as well as some 35 other countries, the extent of information that Google maps provides is phenomenal. To create their maps, the Google computer uses its already inputted data from human research to predict the way that roads will turn or separate off. In addition to its computer database, it also relies on people to report errors or changes that the computer cannot predict. Overall, the article makes a point that Google will probably continue to dominate the digital mapping market, because of the sheer amount of work it takes to create a map to the level of detail required today.
ReplyDeleteThe second article talks about how Google started off, as it wasn’t the first mapping program online, but it was the first that people paid extensive attention to. Launching in 2005, Google bought a company to develop geospatial visualization software in an effort to translate maps into the digital world to be interactive. Its satellite imagery allowed Google maps to be browse-able, especially with the addition of street view. For the foreseeable future, multiple companies will continue to compete to make the best maps. It will also be focused on making the maps more contextually relevant for human uses.
The third article is about Google’s new project to virtually map various tourist places and other exploration sites, so that people can visit places all around the world from the comfort of their home. By attaching cameras to people as they climb up a mountain or explore Venice, Google creates a virtual reality for people to take journeys in these areas. Anyone and everyone has the power to explore NASA, or take a trip across the desert.
I think that it’s interesting that although Google wasn’t the first to bring maps online, it became by far the most popular form of navigation. I think that although other maps were on the internet and also had turn by turn directions, Google was the first engine to be really interact-able, so that people could relate and connect with the maps more than just receiving directions. People like google maps because it’s convenient and gives visual cues to help navigate, Street View added a completely new factor that nobody had experienced. This is the reason Google’s engine is the most popular, it helps people really work with and connect to the data they are using.
I thought the Galapagos Island videos were really cool, in some transitions I could really immerse myself in the images and it felt like I was moving around the island myself. It was pretty cute how they were educational, I can imagine the videos being used in class someday to teach kids interactively instead of entirely from lecture. The videos moved at a good pace as well, and the movement did not drag on slowly but flowed smoothly throughout the tour. They were very well made, and it makes me want to check out some of Google’s other video projects.
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ReplyDeleteCritical Thinking:
ReplyDelete“Google Maps: a decade of transforming the mapping landscape” mentions how it is Google’s desire to have as much information as possible for their popular Street View feature, and how there are concerns about privacy by some over having Google taking pictures of their property for display on the internet without permission. This issue of balancing the need and practicality of accurate mapping with concerns of privacy is an important issue that must be addressed. While as the article points out that such information as addresses, locations, and information pertaining to specifics of property lines were previously recorded by surveyors without issue, it seems that society may view Google Maps as much more than just a map in the traditional sense. With the Street View feature using actual photos of people’s property, even if out of date by several days, one has to recognize that Google is utilizing photography and question whether such an activity is degrading individual’s right to privacy or if such activity can be considered spying or stalking. Similar concerns are currently being raised with drones and government surveillance, so it seems that Google Maps may one day find itself on the wrong side of the fence in regards to privacy. These privacy concerns of some seem to be valid as Google itself was fined according to the article for collecting information about people’s home networks without permission, and some jurisdictions have outlawed the photography of people’s property without permission. One believes that the best policy at this juncture would be to have a set of clear privacy laws that would provide Google with the ability to photograph one’s home so long as the owner provides permission, thereby allowing Google to attain the information it would like to have while safeguarding individual privacy.
YouTube Response:
The YouTube Video on the Liwa Desert seemed to be focused on showing the world the expanse and range that Google Maps can encompass in detail. The video showed primarily the filming of the Liwa Desert which was devoid of most of the things that we would normally want information about in a map application such as roads, signs, and nearby buildings. It seems that the focus for filming the desert was not for traditional purposes of maps, but primarily for allowing the world to “access” this desert region which most people would not be able to visit in person due to costs and to advertise the advancements in technology used to generate the Street Views as evidenced by the showing of the cameras on the camel’s back.
1. The first and third link don't work for me
ReplyDeleteThe second article talks about the evolution of google maps. It was not the first one that did digital maps, but the fact that it could see streets at local levels, such as traffic signals, stop signs, house numbers, made it become popular. Later on, it was a project with the release of iPhone. However, due to privacy issues, it was fined for $7 millions by the US authorities. At the end, it talks about possible future maps, which is indoor and offline maps.
2.The idea of privacy is what concerns me the most. It is true that it provides a lot of convenience when we can see street views that a normal map wouldn’t be bale to provide, but it is also scary that someone can plan a robbery around my house by looking into my address and surroundings. It is very controversial whether we should keep this feature or not, and I think that although there are some side effects, the convenience it provides would still out-weight the privacy issue.
3. The videos(third) link does not work for me
Summary:
ReplyDeleteIn the first article “How Google Builds Its Maps—and What It Means for the Future of Everything,” we learn about the method that Google uses to build maps. There is a lot of technical work that goes into creating their intensively detailed maps that includes programming, coding, and using human intelligence to receive information. In order to keep the maps updated Google must constantly work to improve the status of their program. Through the knowledge that Google is able to expound upon, they are able to provide all the necessary parts of the maps for people to take advantage of.
The article “Google Maps: a decade of transforming the mapping landscape” discusses the evolution of maps and their progression from static maps to interactive maps. It is highlighted that Google, although not the first to use digital mapping, popularized the idea and created a niche. Due to their success, Google was faced with a lot of competition—including Apple, who was once a partner.
In the last article “Seven wonders of the world to explore on Google Street View” we are introduced to the future of mapping and its capabilities in the virtual world. The article explains the new idea that people can look up places and virtually be there without actually leaving their computer. This works in the way that Google Street View does in that there is a camera that captures the scenery and then compiled together to create a real view of the place.
Critical Thinking:
Throughout all of the articles it is emphasized that there is an immense amount of innovation and knowledge that goes into creating the mapping systems that we know today. In order to develop these complex forms of mapping, it is required that people are constantly patrolling areas and updating the information for the consumers as well as to keep up with competition. The evolution from hot air balloons as a form of mapping to satellites and algorithms used today is quite grand. Now, we rely on maps that are in the digital form—unable to conveniently use the traditional paper maps.
YouTube Response:
I watched the video on Liwa, and I found the experience really incredible. I thought that the vastness of the scenery was captured really well and I felt like it was actually from my point of view. I thought that the technology was very fascinating, and through it I was able to gain a greater understanding of the landscape of Liwa. That being said, this form of viewing isn’t nearly as spectacular as the real thing. Although it comes close, I would not say that this is a substitute to travelling somewhere in order to see everything it has to offer.