I think that the use of Google Apps in schools is a great way to collaborate and create useful things that can be shared instantly. With the way the world works today, it's imperative that students learn how to use different Apps in order to communicate with all types of people from all over the world. I love using Google Documents in order to share information with colleagues and love that you can edit work and make comments throughout a document easily. Students would do well to learn how to use this in order to share ideas with peers and give and take constructive criticism on work. When I think of Google Apps the one word that always comes to mind is "collaboration" because many of the apps seem to be designed specifically for that purpose.
When it comes to using Google Apps for teacher PD, I honestly wish we used them more. I think that there is such a huge disconnect for teachers when they are done with their meetings because they are left with the question of what to do when they actually get into their classrooms. If we used more Google Apps in order to collaborate and edit ideas, we would all be much more comfortable to use technology and more confident to teach them to students. Something I've noticed is that teachers aren't resisting technology, they are just nervous to use it and getting rid of the nerves has to start with PD. I would never want to teach in front of my students without knowing the ins and outs of what I was using to deliver my lesson. I wholeheartedly believe that teachers would be willing to learn more about technology and use more technology in their classrooms if they were comfortable with the basics of Google Apps.
I agree with your statement that teachers are more nervous with than resistant to technology. I see the same thing. The more opportunities that they have to practice it hands-on, whether through professional development or training sessions, the more willing they are to give it a go. Also, once they have been successful with one tool, they are more willing to try another. None of us want to be struggling in front of our students. However, when it comes to technology, part of the learning curve is being willing to say, "Does anyone know how to..." or "Can anyone show Mary how to..." Great post!
ReplyDeleteJulie,
ReplyDeleteI find that when working with kids in docs, you have to take baby steps. At first, I thought all my 8th graders would love the idea of collaborating on an assignment (it beats doing on your own, right?) I was reminded, however, that 8th graders can be silly, and found that some would just highlight everything in black so no one could see the text, or deleted certain passages...I have since had students choose a recorder for a group and only give him/her editing privileges. Then, over time, we discuss the benefits of collaboration as well as what distractions can be destructive to the process. All in all, a teachable moment - we do still have to remember they are just kids.
I must admit, I saw a huge change in regards to our teachers' comfort level with Google apps, once our administration started using it. Our teacher handbook, internal & external calendars, faculty meeting agendas & minutes, and professional portfolio are all Google. I'm not sure how much that translates to the classroom, but when forced to use it as an adult for adult information, I can only hope they see how it can translate into their work with kids.
Great post,
Megan
Julie - I completely agree that more professional development needs to be spent educating teachers how to successfully use Google Apps within the classroom. Many teachers are hesitant to explore and discover Google Apps independently, and some cannot even fathom the possibilities. Using PD time to show and explain to teachers the possibilities, can help create a great support and learning system for teachers. I often find that introducing things to teachers and students, if the content or tool is new, can be demonstrate the same way! The dilemma is always time - and in education there never seems to be enough!!
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