This is Why Students Students Should Use Google Apps

So at the beginning of the year my district decided to give our students Google accounts so that students could use Google Apps, specifically Google Drive. We started with the basic functions of documents and presentations. It wasn't much different than your typical word processing and powerpoint lesson. We then showed them how to share documents. I graded them and they could see the results instantly. I told them that the best was yet to come.

They have been studying the Solar System in Science. We let them choose any topic to research and make a presentation. They knew how to make presentations, but I showed them how to share them with their classmates. They thought that was pretty cool. THEN I showed them the chat feature. You would have thought I let I doled out extra recess. They went nuts. I was a little nervous that they would misuse it and just chat about everything but their projects, but they amazed me at the level of conversation. They were not only discussing the project, but how to make it better and complimenting each other along the way. Now, I went nuts.

As it turns out, I didn't have to give a big speech about not using the chat to talk about non-school related stuff. They just did it because they were caught up in how well it worked as a communication tool.

So the biggest reason why I think students should use this technology is communication. I told them that face-to-face communication is not always needed and we can learn how to adapt without it. They weren't silent while working on the projects, but the majority of their communication was through their writing. This is the kind of work that they will do and the way they will communicate later in their lives, and they are seeing the value of it at a very young age. In my technology class, my students aren't just learning about technology, they are also learning better communication skills and how to leverage available technology to accomplish tasks. So that is why I believe students need to use Google apps.

The Difference Between Search and Research

This post was inspired by Wendy Eiteljorg. She posted about teaching students about the difference between searching and researching a topic. This could not have been timed better. I read this post about a week before my students were going to start a research project about explorers. I had great intentions of teaching the best lesson on research EVER! It didn't go as well as planned, but just keep reading.

I started with my first group by using a T-chart to list some differences between search and research. I used examples like a dog fetching a ball and Trick or Treating and examining candy after Trick or Treat (both suggestions made by Wendy). It was great. We talked about how I LOVE Google, but not for research. We can't always trust everything we find on Google and Google doesn't give us the kind of information we need for research reports. It is great for finding quick answers (search). I love Google, I mean I am using the blogger platform after all, just not for kids doing research reports. And the Teacher of the Year award goes to ... Mr. Evans!

Then we get to the computer lab. I caught two students using Google to search for their explorers. Do I have to give my award back now?

I tried with the next class and I think it went better. I made the students tell me more about why they shouldn't use Google and why they should use INFOhio instead. I was surprised at how well they already understood the concept. We got to the computer lab. Nobody tried to use Google. SUCCESS!

I feel bad for my first group of students. I feel that I shortchanged them. I will continue to work with them on the differences, but I feel this is a good start.

I'll let you know when the award comes in the mail :)