Collaboration Sites

            Google Apps is a useful mode for collaboration because of it’s web-based platform and it’s price: free. I can see why this system of communicating and collaborating would be attractive to schools, especially those that may be on a tight budget. For teacher’s that write lesson plans or draw up worksheets at home, they can keep their documents saved to Google docs, which allows them to enjoy the freedom of access from any computer that is connected to the web.  They can share, create and edit using this web-based format, and it can allow for more efficient and safer usage when working with important documents. Whereas other options require the creator of a document to save via an external device, web-based platforms, such as Google docs allow for greater flexibility. Because collaborators that use Google Apps all communicate using the same calendar, files, email system and other tools, there is likely less miscommunication that occurs. Lastly, because this service is free, its usage is very appealing compared to its competitors.

            Twiducate, is a private, social networking site that allows teachers and students to communicate ideas, important dates, useful links etc. Twiducate promotes its use by noting that many students already enjoy using social media sites and Twiducate can allow for group collaboration, while appealing to this interest that many students have, but in a private and safe way.  I think that there could be instances in which this medium would be useful, but I’m skeptical of its necessity in the classroom. I don’t think student’s need or even desire a social networking tool for educational purposes. I think one element that might deter interest from this option is that it seems to clearly be knocking off its image from twitter. It not only uses the same beginning lettering, but it’s font for the logo looks very similar as well. I don’t think “knock-off” products and services usually tend to enjoy similar success as the original.

            Lastly, Donorschoose.org allows public school teachers to request donations for products, materials, resources etc. to enhance the educational environment of their classroom. Donors can choose from these by browsing through them and choose to give towards their implementation in the classroom.  I think this is a fantastic idea and a great way to expand the resources teachers have available to them. This website maximizes the support community for teachers and will likely have extraordinary effects on the education community as a whole.

These forms of technology can enhance group collaboration in powerful ways. Whereas in years past, group collaboration depended on face-to-face contact, paper documents, and slower processing, newer technology allows for greater ease of access, greater efficiency, and more user-friendly applicability.  It is amazing to see the transformation of how new technology, and specifically web-based forms, can change the way business and educational models progress. Web-based communication tools have decreased, and arguably nearly eliminated the idea of geographic distance as a barrier. 

Sources:

Google Apps: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Leuvce3v5BM&NR=1

Twiducate: http://twiducate.com/

Donors Choose: donorschoose.org