What internet resources are you using in your classroom?
As I was exploring of all the many Web 2.0 tools, I discovered many new resources and went deeper into some resources that I am already using. I was amazed to see the many possibilities of using these technologies in the classroom with students, rather than just for my own professional growth, planning, and knowledge. As an elementary teacher with limited resources, I found Google Drive to be the most beneficial tool. Although my school district uses Google for Gmail and other activities at the high school level, it is rarely discussed when working with young students. I was never aware of the awesome, additional features that were available to me, most of which are free.
I am excited to start using Google Forms and Google Sites in my classroom with my third grade students. As the oldest students in my elementary building, they take the most paper and pencil assessments, and using Forms will be a tremendous time-saver with the automatic grading options. It is also a great way to teach basic technology skills to my young students. Often students ask about a particular song, video, or composer that we studied, and they will write the name down on a paper to look up later at home. Google Sites can be a great way to provide this information to both students and parents. Also, parents can access my Sites page for information on assignments, upcoming projects and tests, concerts, special days, and after-school club announcements.
When working with students on biographies, poem-writing, or group projects, I plan to utilize Google Docs. I have already created a document to use where students listen to a piece by our composer, and then add their thoughts and observations in the shared Doc and respond to their classmates’ opinions.
As I said, I already have been using Google Drive, but I realized that I am barely touching the surface. There is so much more available to me. For my own planning, I can’t wait to share resources with other teachers, collaborate in live-time on a project, translate parent letters for those that speak a different language, and so much more! I am especially excited about the many music and writing add-ons and extensions that I discovered.
For me, I think one of the major advantages of Google Drive is the ability to be access files anywhere over the internet. In any given day, I probably am using 4-5 different technological devices, and I may need to access something at home that I created at school, and it can be easily done with Google Drive.
As I look forward to another school year, I am excited about the potential of using Google Drive and its many add-ons and extensions. I just can’t wait to share these features with my coworkers and family members.
If you want to check out Google Drive, Docs, Forms, or Sites further, you can check out my videos here.
~Your not-so-techie teacher