Using google maps web-application to create virtual plant maps for use as an online study tool in plant identification courses

Abstract

Virtual plant maps were developed using a web-application for plant identification courses with the goal of providing an additional study resource to students. Eachmap plots the plants covered for the given weekly plant list, providing photographs of specimens, correct nomenclature, along with additional identification and cultural information. The virtual plant maps provide students an opportunity to reviewand revisit plants covered in lecture and laboratory sections on their own and at their convenience. An additional advantage of the virtual plant maps is that they can be easily created using a free web-application via any Internet browser, without the need for rigorous understanding of software and webpage design.