Thing #21

I am a big fan of Google tools. I took a class in Web based collaboration tools last fall, and learned about Google Calendar, Google Sites, and Slideshows. I am looking forward to using Google Sites to create a website for sharing information with parents about current themes in speech therapy, as well as home program support information for parents. I already use Google calendar frequently to manage finances/bill due dates, family events, and track my husband's commitments as well. I added a public menu calendar that should not contain any sensitive information. I also experimented with Picasa, and uploaded a few photos of the newest family addition to the site. Once you click the link, you'll see pictures of our Heinz-57 (the vet won't even venture a guess as to breed) dog, Sparky. He was a stray wandering the street when he chose our family as the one he wanted, and quickly won our hearts last summer.

Other possible uses I can think of 'off the top of my head,' so to speak, include using Google notebook for research and collaborative projects, using Google alerts for updates related to a particular topic you're teaching in the classroom, and Google Earth for geography. I have been so impressed with all of the tools Google is offering to make technology accessible to all.