Is This the End: Reflecting Back on Google Apps for Education

 


It is now the 12th Cohort, which makes it approximately a decade since I first learned how to use Google Apps for Education. I still remember how in awe I was that these apps existed on a web-based platform and that they did not need software to be downloaded onto the computer. I am still in awe of these apps and more so that the company continues to upgrade its features as technology advances to meet the demands of its users.

Because I am self-determined, for this course at least, I am slightly disappointed that I did not learn anything new about the apps itself. What I did learn, however, is that I have used these apps so frequently that they have become necessary in the work that I do each day. It has become evident that embedding technology is needed with today's digital learners and that I as an educator must not only be able to understand and use these apps but also know how to maximize its use to ensure all my students can access my content.

I use Google Apps for a multitude of tasks, some examples include:
  • Daily communication via Gmail (emails)
  • Keeping track of schedules and events using the Google Calendar
  • Setting reminders and to-do lists on Google Tasks
  • Everyday documents on Google Docs
  • Delivery of lessons on Google Slides
  • Organizing and maintaining files on Google Drive
  • Compilation and analyzing data on Google Sheets
  • Creating surveys and quizzes on Google Forms

and so very much more...

To date, I do not know how to effectively complete tasks both professionally and on a personal level.

It is important to continue seeking learning opportunities and in my search I also came across this one site that has additional lessons on all things Google. Check it out https://shakeuplearning.teachable.com/

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