Web-based Applications

Google docs allows multiple people in different places to work on the same document from any computer with Internet access. This eliminates the need to email a document, spreadsheet, or powerpoint back and forth to one another. With Google docs people can simultaneously work on a project together. This mitigates the challenges of geographic location, scheduling, and time constraints. A popular email service is Gmail which offers 25 GB for storage. I like it because it supports, at no extra cost, mobile access over devices like the iPhone, Android, and other phones. Google docs doesn’t require the purchase or installation of software. Although it is like some of the other applications we have learned about in that you can purchase an upgrade that allows for more storage or capability. It is popular with educators as there is an Education Edition at no cost to K-12 and higher education. It is also popular with students who like the on-the-go remote capability. They don’t have to worry about compatibility and can always be connected in their face paced lifestyle. One disadvantage could be the openness of the system for faculty to share, e.g., security of data. Another disadvantage is the flexibility of the software as it offers less functions and capability than other software. Yet another is loss of control of the information. Its strength lies in collaboration and exchange, allowing people to work with one another on a project and rapidly exchanges ideas. It allows sharing of information like syllabi and to public student work. Some improvements also include pivot tables in spreadsheets, capability for Cloud Connect to Microsoft Office, and videos uploads to the document. See this video as principals and teachers discuss the benefits of Google docs in education.

I would recommend Google docs to most co-workers. It has numerous uses and something that students should respond to. They can post syllabi, information, and have students exchange information. The students work collaborative on projects and an obstacle is frequently distance and schedules. Google docs helps reduce those obstacles.

Google has added functionality and flexibility by purchasing companies like YouTube, a popular video device. Just recently Google also bought the online photo editing application, Picnik. It lets you add effects, shapes, and crop photos. It is simple with no downloading or registering to get started. Google already has a product in the Google docs of Picasa, a similar photo device. The addition of Picnik makes Google docs more of a one-stop shop. Google is even considering eliminating the upgrade cost of Picnik Premium.

I would recommend Picnik for my co-workers. I think it is a valuable tool for capturing history, events, and activities. Students can use the photos to integrate into projects. I think it will be a great complement to the class activities.