Using Google to Maximize Student Organization and Productivity
In recent years, Google has positioned itself as a powerful presence in the educational sector. Since an increasing number of students are using Chromebooks and other Google products, it makes sense to select organization and productivity tools from Google to ensure compatibility. Here are four ideas for using Google to maximize student organization and productivity:
First, Google Calendar can be a powerful tool in the classroom. It can be used for everything from scheduling one-on-one writing conferences to keeping students aware of their project due dates and exams. It is also a great way to keep parents engaged in the classroom since they can easily see when assignments are due. And since it is possible to attach notes to calendar entries, students and their parents will be able to access all of the information necessary to be prepared for their due dates.
Second, Google Keep can be used collaboratively by students in order to plan projects. The ability to insert checkboxes means that this can be a powerful tool for organizing assignments. It can also be used by teachers to help students with classroom procedures, such as using laboratory equipment. Students can also use Google Keep as virtual sticky notes—complete with reminders, so nothing gets forgotten.
Third, Google Forms is a powerhouse. Any teacher drowning in paperwork can find a lifeline here—whether their preferred use is for permission slips or for formative assessment. The flexibility of Google forms means that virtually any piece of paper in the classroom can be replaced with a Google Form. And when the teacher is more organized and productive, so is the student.
Fourth, Google Slides can be used as a tracking tool. For example, if a student normally reads two picture books each week and writes brief reports on them, the teacher can create a template for the record and report in Google Slides. Each week, the student can add a new slide and record that week’s reading on it. They might even insert a picture of the book cover, and there is plenty of room on the slide to add a review. With this model, there are no more papers to lose. And teachers don’t need to waste valuable time dealing with handing in and handing out papers. Instead, they can provide feedback and students can make corrections. Not only will the final product be better, but, at the end of the year, students will have all of their work in one place.