First, the software evaluation tool review was extremely helpful. Right now, I have to know about the programs, research them, and decide if they get installed or not. By using an evaluation tool, the teachers need to do the research and get the all of the appropriate information to make a decision. This will save me a lot of time when deciding on software for the classroom.
Another item that was really helpful were the guidelines for professional development. I need to create some professional development courses for our staff to introduce new initiatives like Open Office and Google Apps. Using some of the guidelines in the book, I will be able to produce helpful and meaningful professional development courses.
Finally, I really learned a lot about using Google Apps spreadsheets. Now that we are moving forward with implementing Google Apps in our school, it is important that I know how to use the programs.
Overall, I thought this class was very well done. Thanks to everyone in my group for working so well together to accomplish our goals.
I really liked the free online software. We are moving towards using Google in our school instead of Microsoft. We have Open Office now, but I think I'm probably one of ten people who use is =p mostly because there was no PD classes to teach them how to. I am really glad that you are putting so much thought into your PD classes and I think you should call my district and help them out ;)
ReplyDeleteDo you teach the PD classes?
Mike, the software evaluation tool review was great for me. Our group selected the Sun Prairie Area School District tool and I think I will apply a variation of it for my workplace.
ReplyDeleteI liked the free, collaborative tools we used for spreadsheet, presentation, database, etc. At work we are looking for a shared file system which allows for true, real-time collaboration. Since we are a private firm we will most likely pursue an option which allows us greater control over the data.
I thought it was a great course, too.