Google Docs in the Classroom

Wow!...This was my first response at trying the Google Documents word processor.  I then immediately began thinking of all the ways this software could change classroom learning.  Research projects, collaborative learning and classroom discussion could all benefit from this innovative tool.

While in school myself I used mainly Microsoft word processing programs such as Word.  It was very limiting in that any work usually had to be done from a specific computer or location.  Any research I did at the library I had to record by hand and then wait until I was able to get back to that location in order to transfer it to the document.  So for me, the main benefits to using Google Docs in my own classroom will be its convenience and time saving aspects.

Another strength of Google Docs is the fact it automatically saves your work every few seconds...No more excuses for lost files and missed deadlines!  It also creates a "history" of revisions so that, as a teacher, I can easily see the progression of the assignment (one of the Common Core State Standards involves revision, editing and rewriting).

The collaborative editing feature was very interesting and is another way Google Docs supports Common Core Standards. By experiencing this perk with a fellow classmate I can really see how it would work well in a classroom setting.  Let's say for instance you as a teacher have assigned group research projects.  Day one of the project entails classroom discussion and beginning research.  Students can simultaneously be searching and referencing the web and various written sources all on one document, saving time.  Day two could entail a field trip as further research where again students could work via mobile devices to the same effect.  Now all that is left is compiling there findings which now can be accessed from home while again working simultaneously.  This ability frees up time previously spent on the sharing of information that can now be spent on the in-depth learning of said information. 

The only weaknesses I can see in regards to Google Docs is that not all students may have Internet access at home or outside school as well as some minor issues with exporting files to other programs.  If your particular school doesn't subscribe to Google Apps there is also a small fee per year.  Also, in order to use the word processor to its fullest functions classrooms would need multiple mobile devices as well as computer stations.  As some schools are only beginning to use tablets and other devices in the classroom this could be one of the downsides to tying Google Docs to all school systems.