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Think about the similarities and differences between Google Docs and Wikis.
1. I envision this being used administratively as well as instructionally. I presently use this to complete documents from the Testing Office as well as my Reading Recovery Monthly Report. I could have used this with teachers as I completed the Textbook Inventory. I could have uploaded the document from the Textbook Office and had the teachers fill in their inventory and simply compiled the totals. The principal and I could have used this to format the PMAPP information. When I make the class lists, I could have the teachers or the principal edit them as necessary. As I help new teachers, they could send me their lesson plans and I could edit accordingly, perhaps even chat as I edit so they could understand my reasoning as I make suggestions.
2.What foundational skill set would be required before moving forward with this? I think a background in Word would certainly help. I am glad that Google did not reinvent the wheel but elborated on what is globally known.
3.How would you incorporate these tools into your school or classroom?
I won't repeat the ideas that I stated above. For primary grades, I could have the students complete a web collaboratively before they write to organize their thoughts. Tasks could be divided amoung several students and recorded on the doc. I could see this being used for collaborative Science projects. In the classroom, the possibilities are only confined to my meager knowledge of the tool at this time.
I did post and share the textbook inventory in Google Docs. I use google docs for everything, which is a great way to keep track of all your important documents. Next year I plan to require my students to use their PGCPS Google accounts for all mail, and to upload the documents to Google docs. The students already use my Google sites, where I link my calendar post documents. I know in wikis you can also embed Google calendars, but be aware of the calendar privacy settings. I think wikis are so much better for interactivity as well.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great list of ways to use these tools! I also love your comment, "I am glad that Google did not reinvent the wheel but elaborated on what is globally known." and couldn't agree more! I am sure that as you use these tools in the ways you have explained, you will quickly become the expert and will have a great number of excellent projects going on in your classroom!
ReplyDeleteI do like your idea of sharing textbook inventories. I can see where with Google docs, we could really diminish our reliance on paper for school correspondence. I am thinking about all of the forms that we are required to fill out and submit. Book lists came to mind. Having to issue books and then copy and submit the lists seems redundant now that I can use Google docs to record the information and then share that form with the bookkeeper. It is less paper and less likely that either form is misplaced!
ReplyDeleteI used it with my Special Educators for Behavior Intervention Plans and IEP updates or check-ins. I think it helped me stay organized for each of the 5 students I had to document information for regarding their IEP's and behaviors. I never lost anything! It does reduce our dependency on paper thus reducing some non classroom expenses. In this day and time that is crucial for schools!
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