Goole Docs & Group Projects

First let me say I really do like Google Docs! I think it is a great way to use technology inside of the classroom. I have thought of many different ways to use it to communicate with parents, and to also students. I think the IDEA of working on a group project via google docs is also awesome! But after my experience over the last few days I have learned a few rules.  They are as follows. 

1. As a team set up the docs! 

              The frist think you should do when trying to work on a project with google docs is get everything set up. Create the worksheets and documents you will use. And them make sure that everyone in your group can access the docs. If you have to give out your user name and password then it isn't going to be a successful. The beauty of google docs is that everyone can get on and edit, change, and add so that not just one person is doing all the work. 

2. Have a deadline for everyone to meet

                Everyone has different things going on in their lives, some of my classmates are parents, employees, and students they don't want to be up at midnight working on a project that is due the next day! So set a deadline (preferably before the actual deadline).

3. Divide up the work (don't make one person do everything)

                   After you have set the deadline make sure that everyone knows what they are doing, what they need todo and when it should be done. Most likely this will be laid out by the teacher but just re iterate it. No one wants to feel like they are the only ones working on something. 

4. USE THEM!! 

                    This is basic and to the point, USE THE DOCS, that way everyone can see what has been done and what needs to be done. If large companies can use them then surely small classrooms and collage students can right?

Otherwise after your group project you will look something like this :

While this isn't my most educational post I thought it could be helpful to someone :) 

  As a future elementary teacher i looked up the NC Essential Standards for grades k-5. I want to know what as a teacher I will need to make sure my students know. Number 1 it is extremely important that our students understand the difference in text read for enjoyment and information. Sometimes this can be the same but they need to understand what an educational resource is. They also must understand the responsibility that comes with using the internet. Just because it is posted on the internet doesn't mean that we have the right to take it for our own. There is also a responsibility in using computers and electronic devices. Students need to make sure to take care of them so that the next person doesn't have issues. While students need to understand how to use the technology properly, teachers need to know how to use in class. 
   Teachers have the responsibility of impalement curriculum plans that intergrade technology. Technology needs to be used in a way that will maximize students learning. Making sure that students have as much access to technology as possible. Showing them how to use  different aspects to show what they have leaned. Not only is teaching technology important, but teachers should also use it to be more efficient in their work.  Technology is a grate way to continue your learning or look for new ideas to use in class. Teacher need to make sure to use anything they can to keep their class up to date and relevant as possible. 

Chapter 1 and 3 Review


21st Century Learners
    In our high-tech world people are constantly looking for what is the next latest and greatest in new technology. Students start working with computers at a very young age and most understand how to get around a computer better then their parents by middle school. Our new learners need to not only understand how to get around the computer but know how to use it. They need to understand how to not just work more but more efficiently. 
    As teachers we need to better understand how to get the attention of our students how to get them to learn and like it! In the new world getting through collage doesn't mean you will be able to find a job. It's is going to come down to how well you can communicate in all forms. 21st century learns have a lot more to adapt to then i did just 15 years ago.