Google Documents training is step 4 in the CATCHsystem. There is reason for using Google instead of simply stating Documents training but first, lets identify the 4 types of Documents, then explain Google. Putting all 4 of these together can help anyone be more productive, whether it’s in business, education or another endeavor. Students are most likely to benefit from following this type of Documents training.
The first and most widely used Document is a Word Document. With it, a user processes words to their liking; creating essays, lists, letters, notes and so on. Most people are at least comfortable with using a basic word processing program such as MIcrosoft Word (Pages for the Mac user). Next, there is Forms; these collect data with the aid of questionnaires, surveys, charts, worksheets, and so on. Data from these Forms populate a Spreadsheet, the next type of Form used to organize large amounts of data. One of the big buzz words/statements lately is ‘Data Driven.’ It’s important to be able to organize and understand collected data, getting some Spreadsheet training is valuable in this setting. Last, there are Presentations. This is typically made into a Slideshow, using such programs as Microsoft Powerpoint, Apple Keynote or Open Office Powerpoint. After analyzing the collected data we present our findings and opinions to those most effected by the results. In education, this is where students finish a project and present results to their teacher and/or class.
If students know and understand Sites, work can be uploaded to a personal or class website for all interested to view. And this is why Google Documents training is recommended. Google provides free resources for all 4 types of Documents training and gives support where and when needed. Users create their own Google account and store all work on their server in the ‘Cloud.’ This can be accessed at any time and any place your computer is connected to the internet. Additionally, Google allows users to ‘Share’ work with others. In the past, work was emailed to one another and sent back, creating more than one copy of the work. Now, the same document can be shared and changed whenever convenient. Live updates allow the document to be changed in real time so collaborators can work on it at the same time and see what each is doing. Forms are changed into web links so it can be shared with all asked to fill it out, all that’s needed is to follow the link, fill out the requested information and click submit. Google automatically populates a Spreadsheet will the information collected. This very simple and powerful option allows the creator to then make a Presentation with all the information using Google’s Slideshow/Powerpoint tool.
Many students struggle with the idea of presenting work to their teacher and/or classmates. Much of the discomfort comes in the form of not knowing how to follow the steps we’ve outlined above. It’s not difficult or complicated, yet it’s not taught. If students could use their knowledge of Word Documents to create Forms that populate Spreadsheets and lead to Presentations, there would be much more opportunity for learning because the anxiety is removed. Imagine students and schools where we could follow these steps simply and easily. Think of the number of jobs that require employees to process Documents, create Forms, analyze Spreadsheets and make Presentations. If students knew how to do this, with confidence by middle school, they’d be far ahead of the game!
Let’s get Documents training into all our schools so students are less anxious and more excited about sharing their knowledge! Thanks. :)
