Google Docs

Today my district switched from Novell Groupwise to Gmail Google Apps. The blog written by Mr. Bryne titled "New Google Docs Community Offers How-to Videos," allows people to see the full capability of Google and the programs that it offers.

Google is most commonly known for typing in key words or phrasing and getting information, but what many people don't know is all of the other uses. By putting how-to videos on Youtube individuals are able to connect with other users to share ideas of how they are using Google Docs and to also learn what is available to use.
Google Docs users are able to simultaneously edit shared documents and work on them as a group, similar to wiki pages, however these documents can consist of word documents, powerpoint presentations, and excel spreadsheets. Instant reminders of meetings or important information can be shared and sent throughout the school building. Another feature is Google Chat. Teachers in our school are now able to send messages, questions, or comments immediately to other teachers, instead of interrupting a class with a phone call or spending the time to open/write an e-mail.

It is helpful to me to know that even though our staff went through training of how to use Google Apps. that there are videos and a community of people online who also use this program to help to workout the kinks as our switch takes place.