Maps

In class today we had a brief discussion on GPS systems and maps and the idea of people being able to read a map. I know that anytime that I go on vacation I have an option of getting a trip tick. In order to get this you have to be a member of AAA (which is a traveling, insurance, vacationing, and roadside assistance organization). Any time I go on vacation I call AAA and they make a readable map for me. Instead of looking at a map they write out all the directions, kind of like map quest does. The only difference is they offer alternative routes, park areas, and other details that might be suitable for someone. I find this to be much easier than reading a map. I like the idea of reading directions rather than looking at a map and analyzing, planning, and thinking about the best route or idea, I find AAA to be much easier. This topic relates somewhat to the device paradigm. The idea of people losing there basic knowledge and skills is in effect in this case. I can read a map only due to being taught by my father at a young age to my teenage years, but every time my friends or my girlfriend are traveling they rely on their trusty GPS system or AAA. My question to anybody who finds this interesting is how can technology change the whole essence of a road trip and just going where ever the road takes us?