Google Docs is by far the best piece of technology that I have integrated into my classroom! Keep reading...I'll show you how easy it really is!
What is Google Docs?
Google Docs removes the need for multiple copies or version of the same document/spreadsheet/presentation. Multiple people can work on the same document at the same time from different locations. The file is saved in the 'cloud'--on the Internet. The file is not saved on one person's computer, but can be accessed at any time, from any computer or smart phone.
Let's watch a quick video on what Google Docs is:
What Features Do I Use in My Classroom?
The first thing I used in Google Docs was the Forms. You can create online forms (surveys, self-assessment, peer evaluation forms) that can easily be distributed to your students (or staff) with a web-link to gather data and information. All the results are automatically saved into an spreadsheet (Excel) in your Google Docs. From there, you can sort the data, analyze the data and create visual representations of the data. Hello, Math teachers? Are you listening!
From there I entered into the world of Google Docs for documents (Word), spreadsheets (Excel) and presentations (Powerpoint).
Last semester I taught 12U biology for the first time and had my first experience with students who will fight to the end to get that last extra mark, and a major group project. I'm sure some of you know what I'm talking about. I heard things like "I did more than them. I deserve more marks." And my answer had always been prove it. And they couldn't.
Now they can.
One of the greatest features of Google Docs is See Revision History. This allows you track every bit of typing each student does. It is highlighted in a different colour and has their name tagged to it. Awesome!
You can also provide instant feed back by Inserting a Comment at any point in the document.
How did I use this in my class?
At the beginning of the course, when I was presenting the ISP project and students were getting into their groups, I modeled how to use Google Docs and told them this was the only option they had for preparing their project.
Now I will model it for you:
1. Go to Google.ca and create an account. Any email address will do.
2. Along the top of the screen, choose the MORE option, and then choose DOCUMENTS.
3. On the left, choose CREATE NEW.
I can't seem to embed the Screenjelly (screenjelly.com--records your on screen actions) file, but here is the link!
How To Start Using Google Docs via ScreenJelly.com
Let's watch how to create a new FORM:
Cool Eh?
Let's keep going.
How to Create a New Document, Spreadsheet or Presentation:
1. From the main screen, click CREATE NEW and choose what type of file you would like to create.
2. At the top of the page, you will see it says UNTITLED DOCUMENT. You should change this to something more informative or creative.
3. Start typing. Exciting eh?
By the way, you can also upload an existing file from your computer..
Now you will want to share this document with others. Here's how:
Once the students have shared the document with each other, they must also share it with you--and you need to tell them that you need to be able to edit the document in order to provide feedback.
Think your are ready? Just jump in and start playing around. It's easier than you think!
