Think 20: Google Docs

I think Google Docs is a great way to collaborate!  I shared a document that I created on Google Docs and another one that I imported.  This allows contributors to rearrange and change content easily.  The chat feature lets you discuss changes and ideas to improve the document.  I also love the form that Shelley created.  The spreadsheet feature organizes the information for me! 

 As I was exploring Google Docs, I thought of several ways to use it. 

• First, the form feature allows you to create questionnaires that can be used in a variety of ways.  Students may share their ideas on particular topics, and they are able to see them collected in spreadsheet form.  This can be turned into graphs or charts for learning purposes.  I think room parents would love the forms as well.  They could send them out to see which parents could send in items for parties or projects, and the spreadsheet organizes all of the information.  I would much rather send forms like these to parents than use so much paper!  This would allow parents to quickly complete the forms and submit them.  They are less likely to get lost or get eaten by a locker monster!
• I like the fact that presentations can be created with Google Docs.  Students can collaborate on presentations by adding in their own slides (and they can even work from home).  This would be a great project for the beginning of the year.  I usually have students bring in photos of their families, summer trips, etc.  With Google Docs, students could work together with their parents to create a slide for an “All About Our Class” presentation.  During our geometry unit, students bring in objects of different shapes.  Instead of bringing in items, students could take photos at home and add them to the slide show.  Side-note:  Just as I finished this bullet point, a teacher came in and asked if we could work on a presentation together as a grade level.  The presentation is for “Move Up Day.”  I immediately showed her how to use Google Docs.  Now, I can add my slides from home tonight.  Hooray!  While meeting face-to-face is fantastic, time doesn’t always permit that kind of collaboration.
• Another idea I had was for third grade teachers to revamp old tests and quizzes using Google Docs.  This prevents us from constantly emailing changes to each other.  It also allows us to access our documents from anywhere! 

I love tools like Google Docs because they make our lives easier.  Why didn’t I think of this idea?  I think Google Docs allows for even more collaboration between teachers, parents, and students.  Now, I need to end this post and get started on my part of the “Move Up Day” presentation!