Tuesday, November 6, 2012

Improved Google Tools

I know! More information! I think these are some ideas you will really be able to use in your classrooms!

I heard a Google designer last month say, "Take advantage of Google's push to stay on top of/compete in the technology world."
We, as educators, are reaping the benefits! Google is constantly coming out with ways to improve use of their products.

Here are two examples. The first link is very exciting! I think there are endless possibilities to effectively use this tool. They have included a research option under tools. This will allow you to stay on the same page and have the research tool appear at the right side of the page. You can right click on a word and information about that topic will appear. That could include web sites, pictures, quotes, maps, history, etc. Watch the video, as it will give you the basics. Very valuable!

The second link is about one click for Google tools. If you are using Google Chrome, which I recommend, you can now get an app for Docs, Presentation, and Spreadsheet from the Chrome Store. The app will appear on your "New Tab" page. This will allow you to go to New Tab and start your document/spreadsheet/presentation without having to go to Google Drive and then to Create. Nice little time saver.

Google research:  http://goo.gl/PBtgZ

Google one click:   http://goo.gl/GGqmQ    

As always, let me know how I can help you!

Online Libraries

With ever-shrinking budgets, subscriptions to databases are going to become fewer and farther between. Following are links to some online libraries that will help students do the research they need to prepare quality, valid presentations.
Included are historical documents, works of art, e-books, guides to other online libraries, and much more. Check some of these online libraries out.

http://goo.gl/WNSdK

http://goo.gl/Tbbpy