Utilizing Technology in Education: Google Docs, Digital Media, and Online Learning Tools

1. Presentation Software By: Ryan Schmidt, Eden Buchanan-Anderson, Daniel Sonido, Casey Hinkle, and Alecy Molina

2. Google Docs Google docs is a free web-based program offered by Google It allows users to create and edit documents online while collaborating in real-time with other users It allows groups to create a presentation without meeting face-to-face (Like our group did for this project!) Documents, spreadsheets, powerpoints, etc. can be created with Google Docs and sent to others via email or web interface

3. Digital Audio and Video These allow audio or video files of lectures to be put online for student use. These can be used for studying purposes, as a reminder of the classroom lecture, or could be used in place of a classroom lecture, to be viewed at the student's leisure. This allows online classes, such as this, to exist. The cost of such recorders vary greatly. The top two results from Amazon when searching for a "Digital Voice Recorder" are $45.30 and $252.03, respectively. However, most modern cell phones have built in audio recording, which means most students and faculty should have easy access to such devices. Example of this technology in use: http://freevideolectures.com/

4. Social Networking Social networking sites allow people to connect with their friends, family, and business associates, as well as anyone else they choose to connect with. These allow for greater cooperation among students in some situations, but are also famous for how distracting and addicting their users find them to be. Ex) https://www.facebook.com/ Outside resource:http://socialnetworking.procon.org/

5. PowerPoint PowerPoint has radically changed the way students and teachers interact. For teachers, PowerPoint is an easy and effective way to use as a lecture aide and highlight important ideas. For students, PowerPoint makes studying much more organized and focused. Students have a visual aide while the teacher is lecturing and can also use the Power Points as a study guide. Teachers are also able to post their PowerPoints to their websites to make accessible to students anywhere at anytime. Example: This Presentation Software Project!

6. Skype Skype is a program used for video and audio calling, as well as instant messaging. It is free to download and free to use (though it does allow users to purchase a premium version). Free users of Skype are allowed to message and call all other users of Skype with the program. This program allows all people with an internet connection to connect on a new level. Video calling removes most of the unclarities that appear in conversations made solely through text or audio. Teachers and students can use this program to discuss issues concerning the material. http://www.skype.com/en/

7. Online Classes • Online classes began in the 1980s • As the Internet became more available more and more schools began to offer them • There are many benefits for online classes such as:flexibility, lower costs and no transportation necessary • These are mostly benefits for non full time students • Such as a parent,part-time or full-time worker • Online classes have made it possible to earn a college education regardless of any personal challenges

8. Digital Divide • The amount of sites in the Internet has grown from 130 in 1993 to nearly 644 million in 2012 • New technologies are being developed at a stupendous rate • In today's job market the ability to use programs such as powerpoint, excel and word are essential • If schools want to provide its students with the best chance at success, they need to adapt to the changing job market and implement technology in their curriculum