Module 3:

g Docs. I am really looking forward to having a play with this. Theoretically, I think I can see some really great uses for this. For some less able students who find creating a piece of writing, or sentence structure difficult, the teacher/aide could start it for them, and have them complete and continue. With a few sessions like this, they would grow in confidence and create more for themselves. For example, recently some of our students, after viewing a movie, were required to report on themes portrayed and the techniques that were used to portray their chosen theme. Many less confident students were very reluctant to start, and needed support to continue. Apart from providing scaffolds etc, using this format, teachers could provide feedback and support outside the time restrictions of the classroom setting on an individual (or group) basis.

This may also provide a less public way to manage different learning levels within a classroom.

For less able students, this could be a great vehicle to use for modifying tasks, parallel planning (such as modifying curriculum into manageable tasks) for life skills students while still enjoying an inclusive approach.

Another students use that immediately comes to mind is our debating team! This clever group's practise and preparation might be enhanced by thoughts and contributions outside their school time.

Another suggestion where it may be useful is where colleagues are all contributing to the same piece of work in their own time and space. Each member can immediately see the others' contributions and continue on. For example, where a progress report on a student is required, each teacher could post his/her own observations to the same document. This approach could be used for curriculum planning, policy planning, calendar planning etc.

MODULE 3 PS..October 2010:

 P.S. Recently one of our teachers employed google docs to have his english students submit drafts of their essays. As I assist in this class, I was also able to assist students with completing their work. It was thrilling to be involved and watch the development of ideas and understanding of concepts of some of the students, until finally their polished final product was ready for submission. Later, came the excitement of results. So very rewarding.