Google Docs is just like any other commercial office suite. However, the only difference is it is free to use. It has managed to replicate Excel, Word and PowerPoint with Google Spreadsheets, Docs and Presentations. Educators and learners can upload, create and store all these files online and then download them to other office applications and save them on their computers.
Following are some of interesting ways Google Docs can be used in education:
Collaborative Writing
Google Docs integrates various tools like their famous search application, access to online books and scholarly articles, smart spell checker that provide writing support to students while working on their assignments, projects or papers. Students can share their work with the instructor or students to receive immediate feedback in this 24/7 classroom.
Feedback made easy
As instructors, we always complain about our email boxes being cluttered with inquires, submissions, questions, etc. from our students, colleagues, etc. This can be managed in Google Docs by using a Google Form. For example: An instructor can develop a Google Form to collect assignments. The students complete the form to submit their assignment and add the link to their Google Doc. This way the spreadsheet is automatically populated and, the instructor can keep track of assignments, and access them for grading and review.
Instructors can also create small quizzes with Google forms to encourage student engagement, reinforce learning of important concepts or, simply as a tool for feedback. The instructor can just create a form with a few multiple choice questions, submit the correct answers, input a simple formula into the spreadsheet and let the technology do the grading.
Brainstorming
Another useful feature provided by Google Docs, is the drawing component which can be used for online collaborative brainstorming sessions that provide students with opportunities to work together to develop ideas just like they would in a traditional brainstorming session. However, it would encourage participation from all learners not just the “quick thinkers” in the class. Students can use shapes, arrows, text and even import pictures to build a visual map. Instructors can use the revision history option that uses color codes to track changes made to the Google Doc. This makes it easier for instructors to see what each student has contributed.
Google Docs is constantly updating its software by adding new features, to make it increasing user friendly for teachers and students alike. All you have to do is create a google account or use an existing account to get started!
Check out the links below to learn more about Google Docs
Following are some of interesting ways Google Docs can be used in education:
Collaborative Writing
Google Docs integrates various tools like their famous search application, access to online books and scholarly articles, smart spell checker that provide writing support to students while working on their assignments, projects or papers. Students can share their work with the instructor or students to receive immediate feedback in this 24/7 classroom.
Feedback made easy
As instructors, we always complain about our email boxes being cluttered with inquires, submissions, questions, etc. from our students, colleagues, etc. This can be managed in Google Docs by using a Google Form. For example: An instructor can develop a Google Form to collect assignments. The students complete the form to submit their assignment and add the link to their Google Doc. This way the spreadsheet is automatically populated and, the instructor can keep track of assignments, and access them for grading and review.
Instructors can also create small quizzes with Google forms to encourage student engagement, reinforce learning of important concepts or, simply as a tool for feedback. The instructor can just create a form with a few multiple choice questions, submit the correct answers, input a simple formula into the spreadsheet and let the technology do the grading.
Brainstorming
Another useful feature provided by Google Docs, is the drawing component which can be used for online collaborative brainstorming sessions that provide students with opportunities to work together to develop ideas just like they would in a traditional brainstorming session. However, it would encourage participation from all learners not just the “quick thinkers” in the class. Students can use shapes, arrows, text and even import pictures to build a visual map. Instructors can use the revision history option that uses color codes to track changes made to the Google Doc. This makes it easier for instructors to see what each student has contributed.
Google Docs is constantly updating its software by adding new features, to make it increasing user friendly for teachers and students alike. All you have to do is create a google account or use an existing account to get started!
Check out the links below to learn more about Google Docs