Technology Tip Tuesday (on a Wednesday): November 20, 2013

RESOURCE OF THE WEEK: Google Drive (formerly known as Google Docs)

 

 

To review this resource, I will give it the "FRAGALE 5."
 

1. What? (A brief overview of what the resource does)
According to Google, Google Drive (in particular, Apps for Education) provides "free web-based email, calendar & documents for collaborative study anytime, anywhere." Furthermore, the "website and document creation tools offer real-time editing, powerful sharing controls, and seamless compatibility – an ideal environment for learning in the 21st century." *For more infomration, go to this link.

2. Who? (Audience, which grade levels can really benefit from this resource?)
Really all grade levels can use this, though I see it especially beneficial for older students who can collaborate, give feedback, peer review, and even complete group work all stored in one location.

3. Where? (In what learning context would this resource be relevant?)
This resource would really work in any classroom as a teacher can create a class account and store student documents, quizzes, polls, blogs, etc. This brings parents, students, and teachers together for easy access and input. Participants can work together to learn, review, assess, and even create.

4. Why? (How can this REALLY help me?)
The graphic below gives 12 different ways a teacher can use Google Drive in the classroom. I love the idea of using Google Drive for rubrics (create a form, answer the questions to assess a writing piece, then all answers are automatically stored in a handy spreadsheet that Google automatically creates for you - aka AMAZING!).

5. How? (Basic instructions)
You can find a starter guide for Google Drive here. I am also available to give you a tutorial at your convenience - simply fill out a Technology Coach Request form on my website (https://sites.google.com/site/reestechcenter/teacher-technology-center-requests). I used Google Drive to create my website, request forms, and even this blog! Needless to say, I am a big fan and continually amazed by the possibilities with Google.

In closing, I will leave you with this little video to peak your interest and get you pumped up about collaboration with Google Drive:

 

Thanks for reading, and have a wonderful Thanksgiving break. I know I am QUITE thankful for this wonderful opportunity to be the Technology Coach at River Eves Elementary, an incredible school!