Technology Tools - Google Docs
Technology tools such as Google docs and blog is a cost-effective tool that can be shared among instructors and students. The tools are free and can connect with any online college. Charolette Brown
Craig,
You are right. I use Google docs some. . . but I prefer the use of the university LMS. It is password protected, it is backed up. I know it won't go down without notice. That doesn't always happen with "open" products. I do know that all LMS 's are not created equal and that is often what drives faculty and students to other tools.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
While I do see the usefulness of Google Docs, my experience is that the educational institutions that I have worked for shy away from the use of these tools and prefer to use the management system being used throughout the university.
When something is part of an official assignment, the university policies generally dictate the work must be done internal to the university system. Students are allowed to use tools like Google Docs for group projects and interaction with other students if they choose.
Google Drive and Drop Box are used in professional group work and sharing situations all of the time and are becoming more acceptable. Google Drive has a huge advantage with the Google platform using GMail and Google Docs. Many are forced to switch to Google Drive for many applications. Drop box is a very user friendly system but doesn't have the built-in link to Google tools.
Catherine,
I like using tools like this as it time stamps the document. That helps the both the student and me. Also it is perfect for group projects. Have you tried Google Hangout? A very nice tool for synchronous communication.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
I had no idea that this could be used as a drop box. Actually, now that I think about it, I see how that would work. My children are in 4th and 5th grade and they both use Google Docs extensively for assignments at school. I have recommended it for group projects. I love it because the work is always there and I can see which students made which revisions.
Patricia,
Thank you for sharing. I use both but really like dropbox.
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
An alternative to Google Docs is "Dropbox" which also is a free app with a generous storage capacity which can be expanded if needed.
I have not tried Google Docs but some of the IT boards are complaining about the level of "tracking" occurring with Google about users. I have not heard any complaints about Dropbox so that may be an alternative to consider if that is a concern for you.
Bernard,
Great sharing of information. I may use this one. . . .
Dr. Kelly Wilkinson
I just installed the Google Drive (which is the 1st step). It looks like you now get 5GB of cloud storage for free....not bad!
