Google+Doc+Research+Paper

Google Doc Research Paper Reflection:

This artifact demonstrates an I-Search (which is basically a research paper) done with Google Docs. Students had to type their research findings into a Google Doc. Their Google Docs were shared with group members who also contributed research. In the end, they had to put all their research together to create a cohesive research project complete with APA documentation.

I realized that Google Docs is an excellent tool for teaching the writing process. It allowed me to leave helpful comments and constructive tips while students were writing, instead of waiting until they were done writing. This was an extremely expedient way to edit drafts because I did not have to wait until the writing was done to catch mistakes; I could do it during the process. It was fast for me and helpful for students to receive almost instant feedback. I could communicate better with students because they could leave questions for me right on their document, and I could answer their questions quickly. It also allowed me to see who was ignoring the assignment and not working at all. I got a much better turn-in rate on this assignment because I was able to catch all the students who normally don't complete assignments.

I intend on using Google Docs for as many future writing assignments as possible. It was such an efficient way of helping students with the writing process that I can't imagine going back to the "old" way. Why wait until students have written several pages with the same mistakes through out, and then spending hours pouring over those pages, correcting the same mistakes over and over? Why do this when I can use the computer to type messages, make comments, and catch their mistakes before they repeat them! I also intend on using other features of Google Docs, such as Google Power Point, so students can collaborate on different kinds of projects.