Thing 9: Collaboration

Collaboration is Key (www.technorati.com)

Instructionally using iPads can be a powerful way to allow students to collaborate with a wide range of different people to gain new knowledge and insight.   There are several different apps available for collaboration, some good and some not.  In this post, we will explore the collaborative tools Alief ISD recommends for use on the iPads.

Google Drive

We have mentioned that Google Drive is available for students in 5^th-12^th grades.   This great tool is also an excellent way to increase collaboration amongst students. The use of Google Docs, Spreadsheets, Presentations, and Sites allows multiple user to contribute to the same file simultaneously.  This means in a typical group of 4-5 students, they could each be looking for pictures, adding text, and contributing to the same project in real time.  Comments, notes, pictures, etc. can all be viewed by each contributing member of the document.  There is also a feature which allows you to see the revision history of the document.  This means a teacher can see which student contributed which part of the work.  It also means if someone accidentally deletes all of the group’s hard work, it can be restored to a previous version.

Skype in the Classroom  

(www.education.skype.com)

When Skype first debuted, it was touted as a great way to communicate with people who are physically in other locations.  And just when we though it couldn’t get any better, there is now a Skype for education!  This great resource allows you to connect your class with other classes from all over the world.  One of the many features of using Skype includes a tool which allows you to find guest speakers and subject matter experts to invite to Skype with your class.  All this is done for free without ever leaving the Skype in the Classroom website! Click here to visit the website and view the introductory video to learn more about this great tool.  After viewing the video, sign up for a free account and explore the other great features of Skype in the Classroom.  While you are exploring, think of way that you can use Skype in your classroom.  Be prepared to share your thoughts and ideas.

Padlet

(www.padlet.com)

Padlet is a virtual corkboard site that makes it possible to share ideas with multiple people.  Previously known as Wall Wisher, Padlet makes it easy for teachers and students to collaborate and communicate ideas and information by posting them on a virtual wall.  The walls you create are completely customizable.  You can change the title, add pictures, customize the background, and much more.  By creating a Padlet account, you can also save the walls you build so you can retrieve the information at a later date and time.  Visit the Padlet website and create and account.  Then, create your first wall and explore all of the different ways you can customize the wall to meet your needs.  Be prepared to share your experience. 

Assignment:

After review Skype in the Classroom and Padlet, answer the following questions in your "Thing 9" blog post:

• What are 2-3 potential ways you can use Skype in your classroom?
• What are 2-3 potential ways you can use Padlet in your classroom?
• Discuss how using these tools will help enhance student learning and engagement.