GAIN #1

Google Documents

1. Most of my experience with word processors comes from using Microsoft Word, but I have also had some experience working with Google Docs. A couple strengths of Google Docs come to mind right away.

Google Docs can be accessed from anywhere having Internet access available. A document can be opened and edited on multiple devices. When using Microsoft Word, documents are limited to one computer, unless they are placed on a flash drive or emailed. With Google Docs, documents are stored online and can be opened just by going to the Internet. Google Docs can also be shared among different people. A document can be interactive, meaning multiple people can edit a shared document. Google Docs can be used on any computer, no matter the operating system, because it is an online resource. There is no limit to the number of documents one can create in Google Docs, and it also offers unlimited storage space.

A downside to using Google Docs is that offline access is more difficult to setup than that of Microsoft Word. Word can be used offline, no matter what, while downloading Google Drive to use offline is a little more complicated.

2. With the implementation of the Common Core State Standards, students will need to become familiar with word processing systems. In the future, students may start taking writing exams on electronic devices. Since Google Docs is a word processing system, it could be one that is used for that purpose. In the breakdown of some Common Core State Standards, Google Docs is specifically included. For example, in his book Google Apps Meets Common Core, Michael J. Graham includes a standard for third grade in regards to writing using technology. The breakdown of the standard includes that Google Docs is the best place for students to learn certain writing skills because of easy sharing, collaborating, and publication. Graham also includes a standard for fourth and fifth grade which also specify the use of Google Docs. Students are able to interact and collaborate with other student using Google Docs, as well as easily access their documents from multiple sources. With the changes in technology, specifically when is comes to state standards, it would be good for school leaders and teachers to become familiar with Google Docs.

3. I remember using Google Docs to take notes in one of my college classes. The professor lectured and we were to take notes off of what he said. In order to do well in his class, we had to take a lot of notes. We covered a lot of material each class, so it took work to keep up. Some students started a document in Google Docs for people in the class to use and take notes. It was very useful because maybe someone else picked up on something that you were not able to, and they could put it in the notes for you to see. I liked to write my notes by hand, but it was helpful for me to double check what I wrote or be able to pick up on something I missed using the class notes in Google Docs. It was also another resource when it came to studying for tests, and it was easy to access the documents.

There is also a chat function when multiple people are connected to the same document on Google Docs. This is helpful because topics can be discussed while people are working on a shared document, no matter how far away they are from one another.