KMi researchers Chris Valentine and Dr Kevin Quick have discovered that the well known Google Maps software can also be used to develop microscopes. They have found that by adapting a technique developed by UCL’s mapping department it is possible to display and manipulate the large images used by the on-line microscopes recently developed at the OU.
The Google Map technology is far more powerful and flexible than the current Flash based software used on many OU internet-based courses, e.g. those for Earth Sciences and Biology. It could also be ‘shared’ as part of a Google Wave, allowing students to collaborate with each other on course activities or receive tutorial advice.
For further information on this project contact Dr Peter Whalley [p.c.whalley@open.ac.uk]
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