I have officially created my first successful spreadsheet in Google Docs and have that warm, tingly sensation. I have attempted spreadsheet creation in the past, but I have found it burdensome to use. I wouldn't say that I had an easy time creating my gumbo recipe spreadsheet, but I did feel a sense of satisfaction after my creation was completed and functional. As I was using the program, I was trying to think about possible uses for spreadsheets in my language arts classroom. Unfortunately, other than attendance, I don't think I will spend much time with this in the future. That being said, it is certainly nice to have this knowledge in my repertoire if I ever need to use a spreadsheet. I would perhaps utilize the capability of this program to be used as a grade book, but with programs like Webgrader and Powerschool, it seems silly to put grades in a spreadsheet. As I think of the recipe that I created, it is nice to take the guesswork out of adjusting the recipe for different serving amounts. I have never really had problems doing the math in my head when it came to recipes, but I suppose it is nice that the computer does the adjusting for the user. I look forward to playing around with spreadsheets as we continue our classes. If I ever get back into coaching, I am sure that I will be using spreadsheets on a regular basis. Of course, if I get back into coaching, my wife will leave me and take the kids. Not sure I want to use spreadsheets that badly. By the way, if the one person who reads this blog wants the gumbo recipe, which is very tasty, I would be happy to send it to you.
I am excited to get my kids (students) collaborating in Google Docs. I will be having my advanced composition collaborating on some essay revisions. Perhaps that doesn't sound very exciting, but I think that having them work together will help ease the pain. I don't think anyone would deny that our students are not the strongest writers. Anything that I can do to help them improve their writing will be a step in the right direction. Students do learn quite a bit by writing essays, but making them really evaluate their work on a second and third look is a process that they are not comfortable completing. Having peers evaluate work together hopefully will provide a better atmosphere for this to occur. I will report back in a later entry concerning the success of this collaboration.
I know what you mean about getting back into coaching - I mentioned to my husband the other day that some of the contracts were coming open and that I was considering applying. If looks could kill...well, you know.
ReplyDeleteI also understand the idea of playing around with the spreadsheets for personal use but having problems with really incorporating them well into the teaching field. As for the personal use, I personally don't spend too much time working hard at spreadsheets, because my husband's favorite program is Excel. He has our family budget down to the penny and one sheet in the workbook is linked to another and the formulas transfer - all very grand and most if it above my head!
I think sometimes when we get comfortable with a tool we find ways we had not explored before - coaching is certainly a great way to use spreadsheets.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you see some possible purpose - now to gain more opportunities.