Google Tools: Summer 2011

Today I began my first class towards my +15...I've been itching to take anything Google related so I was excited to see this Google Tools course being offered!

Since this was our first session, we set up our new gmail accounts for the course, Orkut accounts, and reviewed various videos about Google..."The Beast" was an EYE-Opener for sure, but it didn't sway my love for all things Google.

One of the highlights was the overview of Forms in Google Docs...I've used Google Docs, but mainly for document storage up to this point.  I haven't had many opportunities to integrate student collaboration or writing assignments through Google Docs in my inclusion math & science classes, but during our class today I thought of a bunch of ways that I am planning on using Forms to create pre-assessments, quick HW assignments to check for understanding, tech & interest inventories, journal writing, etc...I'm so excited to get started!

Along with learning a bit about Google Docs, we were also introduced to Google Apps for Educators.  I currently use apps like Calendar, Reader, & Voice, but have always wanted to explore what apps can be integrated into my classroom.  I am going to try to create a project for my students on Google Sites, so they can lead themselves & choose from various topics, and I love that they will have a centralized place to review materials and keep track of tasks they've completed.

I could write about more of my ideas, but this camp counselor has to be up early in the AM.  I look forward to learning from everyone in the next couple of weeks & can't wait to see how everyone else plans on using Google Tools in their classroom.