Google Docs is a web-based word processor that can be accessed from anywhere online. All you need to access google docs is a computer and the internet. This type of technology is a great tool for English classrooms. By using this technology students can create documents and receive feedback from their teacher more quickly. Instead of having to hand in a paper copy of the assignment and wait for the teacher to comment on it and then return it, the teacher can make the comments in real time and the student will receive the comments in real time as well. It makes the editing process much more enjoyable for both the students and the teacher.
It is also a great resource for creating and viewing group projects or collaborative writing assignments. By using this technology the students will not have to find time to meet up together as often and will be able to get more work done. Again, the work that each student finishes will be available right away so the other group members can add their ideas as well.
Because the students are most likely already on the internet and know how to use it it makes sense to utilize Google Docs. Using Google Docs will decrease the amount of time needed to work on assignments without sacrificing the quality of the work. This will ultimately allow more content to be taught and assessed throughout the school year.
I completely agree! I found out about Google Docs last year and have been using it religiously ever since. I agree that it makes assignments more enjoyable as it facilitates the ways in which we work with group members, turn in assignments, and receive feedback from teachers. Another reason I use it is because it automatically saves the document and any change you make without having to click "File, Save." I would always lose my work on Microsoft Office or Excel if my computer ever shut down but with Google Docs everything saves automatically. So if your computer ever shuts down in the middle of a paper or spreadsheet, all you have to do when your computer turns back on is sign into Google and you will find the same document exactly the way you left it. If teachers had students use Google Docs for their assignments they would never have to hear excuses about students losing their work which makes a teacher's job that much easier.
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