Reflection Week #2: Google Part 1

What? 

This week we spent time learning about some of the tools that Google has to offer. We are currently working on doing collaborative research for a Digital Story. A lot of what we learned was more of a refresher for me because I have been using Google Documents for a while now.

So What?

The work that Google has done to create free resources like Google Docs is astounding. The programs are the more useful than any other tool I have found on the web. It is such a benefit to be able to simultaneously work on an assignment or lesson plan without having to be in the same room or even area. I love that these documents can be accessed from anywhere that you can get the internet, and that they function just like other expensive word processing programs. I am extremely busy this semester with leadership responsibilities on top of school work. These resources have been a significant stress reducer because I don't have to worry as much about finding time to meet face to face with group members.

The Google resources will also be so helpful in the classroom.  Having the ability to post not only a calendar but documents online will be such a great communication tool. Students in this day and age love technology, and they know a lot more about it at their age then I sure did, but I know that using these types of tools to integrate learning will help keep their interest and make learning fun. Using these resources to collaborate with colleagues will also be a huge asset. When we use this in our team we will be able to share documents and ideas easily and efficiently.

Now What?

The Google tools are ones I'm sure that my students will love as much as I do. Their ease of use and ability to collaborate is something that makes group work so much easier. I can't wait to create group projects where the students can use these online tools to work together to discover information about things we are learning in class. Not only can they use resources like Google Docs, but they will be able to watch videos created about the subject on You Tube, or play games on sites like PBS. The Internet is filled with amazing opportunities to learn, and by teaching students how to use it effectively it will be a resource they can always use.

I can't wait to see how technology changes in the next two years. There is so much growth that is happening in the technology world that is currently that is not only amazingly advanced, but they are creating  tools that will be an asset in the classroom. Google is constantly creating new tools that students become familar with almost instantly. Just think how their learning will be enhanced when they are given the opportunity to complete assignments using the tools they enjoy using. I love technology and it has always been a huge part of my life so I understand the hold it has on kids today. In the future I can see myself being a teacher that makes technology integration an important piece in the classroom. I think it is so fun discovering new tools because it gives me new ideas on how it can be used in the classroom. I love the ease of being able to store those ideas in a place, like Google Docs, that a few years from now will still (hopefully) be available online.