Reflection #2: Google Pt. 1

WHAT: This week in class we learned more about many things. We learned more about Google Docs, Google Calendars, iGoogle, Google Sites, etc. The assignment we have due next week is to work with our partners to find information about a Standard (4Th-6Th grade) dealing with either Social Studies or Arts. This information we will collaborate with each other using Google Docs, and in a couple of weeks we will use this to start working on our digital story.

SO WHAT: In my last semester class I learned the basics of most of these tools, but they are always adding more details to them. I think it is very important as myself, teacher, and colleague to stay up to date with all the technology coming out. I love that we are able to collaborate with people on Google Docs. I can share all my Documents with people and either have them be able to edit it or just view it. I think that as a teach/colleague this will become very important by sharing ideas and working with one another.

Also, I love having Google Calendars. It has helped me stay so much more organized, which is very important while being a college student and a future teacher. I love that we can add Doc Waters' class calendar onto our own. This is very handy! I am so glad that I am getting the opportunity to learn about all these great technologies because when I become a teacher and colleague I will be able to share all my knowledge with them, and hopefully learn more from them as well!

NOW WHAT: As a teacher, especially with older grades, I know that I will teach them about Google Docs especially. As a student I think it is very important to learn about ways you can collaborate with your fellow students especially on group projects. Sometimes it is very hard to get everyone together at one time, so it is very handy to have tools like this that they can use in and out of school! I know that some of the assignments I could offer to my students they would be able to use Google Docs with writing papers, group projects, power points, etc.

I think that it is very important for me to keep on top of all the technology that keeps advancing like I said above, because as a teacher I will be able to use this knowledge in order to help me become a better and more advanced colleague and teacher. I know that when I become a teacher I will put togther a Google Site for my classroom that my students and their parents will be able to access from the school and at home. I think that as a parent this would be very handy especially in staying caught up with your children's schooling and assignments. All these tools are very helpful now as a student, and I know they will when I become a teacher as well!