The Digital Atlas of Ancient Life, a project of the Paleontological Research Institution based in Ithaca, New York, is elevating fossil exploration. The project serves as "a free resource to help individuals identify and better understand fossil species from particular regions and time intervals." Users can view the four existing Digital Atlases on the Home page (under Regional Field Guides to Fossils) or by clicking on the Field Guides tab. Users who prefer accessing the content on a smartphone will delight in the Digital Atlas app. More information, including how to download the app, is found under the Apps tab. These atlases are far from the only tools available on the site. Educators of all levels will want to check out the Teaching Resources page (found under Teach), which provides lessons for elementary, middle school, and university students. Plus, educators looking to simulate traditional lab environments in a virtual setting will want to check out the Virtual Collection. Here, users will find "interactive 3D models of fossil specimens," accompanied by a user guide for easy implementation. Finally, expert and novice paleontological scholars will find a wealth of resources under the Digital Encyclopedia tab, which acts as "an open access 'textbook' about fossils and the history of life on Earth." The site is frequently updated, and users can stay informed of new additions on the Updates page.
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