DIGITAL COLLABORATIVE TOOLS
IN THE CLASSROOM
This learning module is geared towards educators looking to enhance their teaching by implementing digital collaborative tools (Google Suites) in the classroom. This is a Google Suite tutorial along with lessons and practical ideas embedded within.
Beta Version (work in progress)
Learner Analysis
This course is structured for K-12 educators that teach in a classroom with an interest in integrating online collaborative tools but could be hesitant. They are curious and motivated to enhance their classroom lessons and learn new skills. They have at least a bachelor’s degree and a basic computer literacy. They have access to devices and internet in the classroom, either with a one to one ratio or enough for group settings. These learners have used Google Apps in their own work yet have not moved into using it in the classroom, giving them a basic understanding of how the programs work. The learners are diverse and come from all different walks of life and socioeconomic statuses. This module is inclusive to all learners.
Learning Theory & Instructional Strategies
This module is based on Malcolm Knowles (1984) assumptions of adult learners. The adult learners will be taught through scenarios, allowing them to make mistakes and gain experience. The learners are motivated and interested because they are ready to enhance their teaching styles and see the value in adding collaborative tools into their practice. This module is problem centered where the learner will be participating in the solving of the problems instead of passively taking in content. Feedback will be provided to the learner throughout the entire module to ensure success and growth. The problem based scenarios will mimic real life situations that the teachers will face in the classroom such as laboratory or writing assignments.
The module will begin with information being presented about collaborative tools and their benefits in the classroom. This will be presented with click-to-reveal, drag and drop, and animation activities. This will be followed by a brief introduction to Google Apps and overview of each app that will be covered in the entire module.
From this point, the learner will be able to choose an App on the main menu from Drive, Docs, Sheets or Slides. For the Docs, it will begin with a quick overview of what Docs is and how it can be used as a collaborative tool. The learner will be walked through interactive Google Docs screenshots on how to set up a document to share with the class for an upcoming activity. Examples will be given of how to facilitate using Google Docs as a collaborative tool in the classroom. At the end of the Google Doc lesson, the learner will be given a real life classroom scenario and will be responsible for creating and implementing using Google Doc as a collaborative tool in the classroom. Through this technique, they will be able to learn and practice in a controlled environment. This format will continue for the other Google Apps (Drive, Sheets, and Slides).
In future iterations of this prototype, animations for the scenario and tutorial will be included. There will also be voice overs and audio added.