My first experience with programs similar to Google Docs was with a beta version of Adobes 'Buzzword'. Whilst Buzzword was still in development I remember using the program and thinking of the possibilities both for myself and my students. For my junior IST classes Google Docs is used quite a bit especially when students are working on spreadsheets. The collaborative nature of Google docs when used effectively allows students to evenly contribute work and help each other out in 'real time'. It also allows them to mark and monitor one anothers work throughout. Unfortunately as with all group style activities it is important to ensure that not just one student is doing the brunt of the work and I would also like to see greater development from Google in the use of collaborative databases as this is a unit in the IST course.
For myself I have recently begun using Adobe's Buzzword with a former colleague who has moved to another school to create resources together that we both use in our respective classes. Being able to 'tap' into this knowledge base is invaluable as it allows us to continue to create high quality resources for our students and Buzzword allows us to use more advanced features not found in Google docs.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Michael,
ReplyDeleteGiven that you have expertise in these areas that are quite new to me I have found your blog very insightful and practical. I was particularly interested in your comments on Googledocs. While I had considered its applications for networking and collaborating within school I hadn't given much consideration to the opportunities for professional development and networking across schools. Thank you.