For this project each member of the group had to create several different types of documents in the Google suite of applications. Once completed, the documents were shared among the group and we were then tasked with editing each other’s work. Prior to this activity, I had never collaborated using the Google Apps. After navigating through the various documents of my group members, I was struck by the awesome potential of using this online software not only for teachers but for students as well.
Jen created a mock project based on the reading of a book. The project called for each student to report on a particular survival tool. The instructions for the project were created in Google Docs and each group member was asked to input their survival tool choice. By using Google Docs to create this list, each member was able to see the other tools chosen so they did not duplicate a tool. There were also due dates posted in the document ensuring that everyone was on the same page. By using Google Docs, Jen eliminated the need for making handouts for each student, which are bound to get thrown away, or lost.
Each group member created a presentation that we were able to modify by adding pictures and changing text. There were some issues when it came to adding images to a Google Doc because there is no text wrap feature available, therefore it altered the placement of text and made it awkward to read. By sharing our documents with each other we were able to give feedback and recommendations on how to make them more effective.
These tools could serve many purposes in the classroom. Students can form groups and collaborate on projects outside of the class maximizing time spent on the completing the assignment. Also, I found that these tools would be a great way for teachers to collaborate on lesson plans. Sometimes teachers are so overwhelmed with daily tasks they can’t find time to collaborate with their coworkers, by using these types of online tools they can work together on their own time.
Here are the links to the documents I created using the Google Apps:
Survey
Instructional Material
Slide presentation
Gradebook
french_1_lp.doc |