As I begin the
development phase of my chemical reactions curriculum project, I found Google
sites to be the most suitable tool for the purposes of my unit and my
students. One feature that I liked about
Google sites is the fact that it works across devices no matter the operating system. Because I have nearly 135 students, I know
they and their families have operating systems of preference at home. It is located on the web and does not require
any particular app to be accessed on a mobile device; therefore it will be conveniently
accessed from a device of the student’s choosing.
While it lacks the same
amount of collaborative features that Moodle or Edmodo have, it is suitable to
supplement in-class instruction and face to face interaction. It is my plan to use it for this supplemental
purpose. In my district, teachers are
encouraged to use the school “fusion pages” which are similar to D2L and serve
as our class websites and have features which allow students to turn in
assignments, access class documents, participate in online discussions, and
directly message the teacher. Therefore,
many of the features offered by Edmodo and Moodle are unnecessary in my
case. While they are amazing tools, they
would simply require more time and effort to be equally effective in my
classroom than would Google sites.
Because no registration
is required by the students to access my Google sites, administrative and
parental permission are not necessary.
Students will simply be required to read, view videos, and complete
online tutorials
or simulations
via Google sites, and they can be held accountable through discussion on the
fusion page, class assessments, and laboratory activities.
I plan to provide one
link to a main page in Google sites on our class fusion pages. Subpages in Google will be designated for
each topic within the unit on chemical reactions and on these subpages, links,
instructions, videos, and online tasks will be clearly outlined for
students. Because I am already familiar
with Google sites, it will be an effective and efficient tool to provide a
platform for students to study facts and master the most basic skills necessary
to eventually analyze chemical properties of matter by conducting and observing
chemical reactions in a laboratory setting.
I like that you have picked a different sites then others and I like that you realize what is best for the students and the district. I think we put things in place because they look good, without realizing that it is not the best fit.
ReplyDeleteI think that Google Sites isn't a bad way to go when using for an digital classroom. However, Edmodo and Moodle have many more features to offer to students that can make the online learning environment more inviting. Realizing what is a better fit for teaching students is key and if it work it works.
ReplyDeleteI enjoy your comprehensive review of Google sites and how you plan to incorporate it into your curriculum project. For a group of high school students, Google Sites seems like the best option to me, as it is a resource they may actually need to use in college or the work world.
ReplyDeleteI think that your idea of google pages is a great idea. It is great that their is no registration is required. It eliminates hurdles and issues for students and parents. I like that it puts more responsibility of students and enables them to become more in control of their learning.
ReplyDeleteI think you make a great point that applies to my classroom too. My students have a huge variety of devices and preferences in their households. From students with no computers to students with macbooks, ipads, and iphones. Google has great compatibility and its very accessible for our students.
ReplyDeleteI agree with so many different operating systems that exist within a school building and at home Google sites definately has its advantages. But im wondering if there is a way to make these sites more interactive and exicting for students
ReplyDeleteI like Google sites as well. I use Google sites for a student project in the Spring. The user-friendly system has a variety of options that are perfect for your goals.
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