Module 3 - Google Documents

I have used Google Docs previously to create online surveys using the spreadsheet / form option. It was very useful as we were getting all Yr 11 to complete a survey for learning support. The survey was public, as the content was specific to SCCVC. I have also participated in online surveys.

These forms are really easy to create and use. For the Web 2.0 course we trialled creating documents and sharing among staff here at SCCVC. We could see the positives:

• collaborative tasks within and outside of class time for students
  


• real time editing, could be amusing for students - possible abuse

and negatives:

• teacher is unable to know which students contributed to the document if more than are able to edit


• limited formatting options


• internet access - speed

Actually, most of the teachers working on this module from SCCVC had difficulty uploading a simple, small WORD document. Will need further investigation, another time.

Module 2

Module 2 introduces us to blogs and all the positive features that they provide. Within a class setting, it is a great way to engage students in their own personal learning journey for a subject or topic. Often students are tentative to record their actions and / or reactions to a lesson or experience. Once they start the process, and are provided feedback by their teachers or fellow students, more often the students are more comfortable with the medium.

Online blogging also encourages students to record their entries more regularily. It encourages a more accurate reflection on the activity or lesson they experienced. Here at SCCVC we have using blogging in:

• Work Placement journaling - Business Services students


• Hospitality - students reflecting on processes in a lesson


• English Studies - within the Travel topic, each student recorded an online travel diary from their chosen destination.
  

Module 1

Well here we go again! Having started the Web 2.0 course in Semester 1 at our very new school, and time just got away! Module 1 presented some good introductory views on some Web 2.0 technologies. In particular I enjoyed Jan Hart's 25 Tools: A Toolbox for Learning Professionals 2009. At SCCVC we are using iPod Touches in a project and reference to an iTune application - Evermore, was relevant for our students. A free iPod application it enables you to record text, video or image and synchronise with the corresponding website.

Fortunately, greating an iGoogle page was easy and I have personalised this as my home page for the Internet. Viewing changing images from Ireland is a nice way to start the day at work. I hope to learn many ways of utilising Web 2.0 technologies in everyday classroom activities.