While there are many cloud-based computing options, below are two Web 2.0 tools that would work best for education. These cloud-based options are "means of improving productivity and expanding collaboration in education" (NMC, 2014). With group projects, the cloud can allow students to work together without having to stay after school or visit each other's homes. They can work from any place digitally to collaborate on their portions. Cloud-based technology allows mobile access. This allows both students and staff to access assignments and information from any mobile device. For absent students or students who need to hear information twice, they can view PowerPoint or SMART documents from home. For professional development, resources can be stored using a cloud-based technology for easy reference. Staff can also use it to manage student data, from grades, behavior plans, and goal updates. Dropbox and Google Drive are two free options that can help meet both student and staff goals in collaborating and storing information on a network. The quick videos show exactly how easy it is to use these Web 2.0 tools.
1) Dropbox
- 2GB free storage
- You can pay to upgrade for more storage
- Ideal for documents
- Accessible offline with a local folder that is stored on the computer
- Link to social media
2) Google Drive
- 15 GB free storage
- Ideal for real time collaboration
- Includes using Google Docs, sheets, slides, and presentations
- Many school already have student Google accounts
Alison,
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed the Google drive video on this page. I am fairly new to Google (I've only been using it since EDT6005, if you can believe that) so any additional resource I have that shows me how to do various things on Google is a help to me! Thanks!
Michele,
ReplyDeleteI am a visual learner and sometimes need those step by step directions when trying new technology. I found countless numbers of videos that could walk people through the process of using Google Drive. I think they would be great to share with staff for professional development.