Cloud Based Computing
I believe the use of computers and modern technology in the classroom is essential. Our students are going to be required to know how to use these tools to collaborate with one another and create content for their future professions, and we must prepare students for their future. I try to stay up-to-date on the use of technology in classrooms through the use of podcasts, reading educational blogs, and trying new tools when they become available.
I have become convinced that the power of cloud computing has the power to revolutionize the way we teach, the way students interact with each other and the materials they are learning. As such, I am pushing my staff to using more online, cloud-based tools which will help our students be better prepared for their future. Here are some examples:
- Google Apps for Education – Probably one of the most significant changes I have made recently is to move our school to the use of Google Apps for Education. I have setup two domains, one for staff, and another for students. First, the cost savings of using Google Apps instead of our own locally hosted Exchange Server have been significant, and will continue to grow. Additionally, the mail server is much more robust, reliable and fast. Our staff and students are also realizing the power of Google Docs for staff projects or student homework. It has reduced the number of lost files, increased collaboration, and made work more accessible from both school and home. Those teachers who have been using it more successfully with students have been strong advocates for its use among other staff members.
- Moodle – I have installed and maintain a Moodle site on our website. Currently the site is used to post internal information to staff members (i.e. training videos on how to do things on the computer, substitute teacher lists, articles and videos of interest to staff members, etc.). Two of the teachers in our school have also started using it with students, allowing a secure environment for students to safely chat with one another regarding homework, post personal blogs and complete class assignments.
- Gradebook Wizard – We utilize a service called Gradebook Wizard which is a cloud-based grading system which allows teachers to post assignments, grades, announcements and more for parents to be able to access online. The tool has been very successful in increasing communication with parents.