Google Docs

I know, you are wondering, "Google Docs, what are they, how can I use them, and how can they benefit me?" Well, check out this quick video to find out.


So, Google Docs lets you create documents, spreadsheets and presentations online. If that isn't cool enough by itself, you can also share or collaborate with those same documents. Which mean you can choose who can access your documents, share them instantly, and edit and present with others in real time. Good stuff!

Some other benefits of using Google Docs include the ability to edit and access your documents from anywhere, safely store your work, easily save and export copies, and organize your documents into folders. A fantastic feature, if you are a blogger, is that Google Docs lets you easily share documents by hyperlink with your readers. (More on this in my next post!)

Impressed? I was the first time I tried it out. The great thing about Google Docs is you can use it for free with your Gmail address and password or by creating a Google Account.

Because I love YouTube, here is a pretty good overview of Google Docs from a teacher in California.


For more information and specifics visit the Google Docs Web site. Now, go try out Google Docs and see how easy it is to use!

Google Tools for Teachers

Everyone has heard about Google, the world's most popular place to search the Web. But, Google offers a lot of tools that many educators will want to explore and use in their classrooms. Each week for the next several weeks, I will explore a new tool for you to try out. Some of the items I will be test-driving for you are:

• Gmail
• Google Docs
• Google Calendars
• Google Sites
• Picasa
• Google Groups
• and much more

Did I mention that Google also owns YouTube and Blogger? We will have a lot to explore in the upcoming weeks. If you would like to join in and try out some of the cool features that these Google applications have to offer then get a Gmail account and follow along. Many of the tools I will be discussing require a Gmail account log in. Super easy directions to sign up for your account are below. Plus, it is always a good idea to have a back-up E-mail account to use.

If you don't have a Gmail account, get one! Why you ask? Here are 10 good reasons. Sounds good, huh? Click the "Create an Account" button, fill in some basic information. You will be in your very own Gmail account in minutes.

Good luck and I will talk to you soon!