Reflection #2 - Google

What: This week in class, we were introduced to numerous Google programs including Gmail, iGoogle, Google sites, Google documents, and several others. By experimenting with these programs, I was able to see how each of them would benefit me as an educator.
So What: I never realized all the things that were possible with Google before using these programs. There are so many things that Google offers as great communication tools for teachers. For example, Google documents could be used for teachers to share documents back and forth. Each educator could add or change things on a lesson plan set up in Google documents and then use it in their own classroom. This would be a huge time saver! iGoogle is also a great tool that could allow teachers to more closely manage their time. I love the idea of making a class calendar public for parents and students to view that shares due dates as well as upcoming events. Google programs offer so many opportunities to share ideas and collaborate with others.
Now What: Learning about the programs that Google has to offer makes me feel confident in my ability to incorporate technology into my classroom. I also think that Google has numerous great programs that could be extremely useful to me as a teacher. Google documents is going to be such a time saver that will allow me to collaborate with other educators in my school and iGoogle is a great resource that will allow me to communicate with my students' parents. I'm excited to see how using these programs will make me more efficient and organized in my own classroom.