Google Site

I’ve created a Google site not only an assignment for 8Y59 but also as a resource that could be implemented in the classroom to enhance student learning. I began working on the site before my first teaching block began and originally intended to use it during practicum; however, I got really busy and wasn’t able to get the site ready in time to actually use it as a resource for my students. After I returned to Brock from block, I continued working on my site and this is the result. The site was designed with the Ancient Greece Unit that I taught over the course of four weeks in mind. The home page includes a welcome message for the students. There is also a calendar complete with due dates, test dates, and events occurring in the school. Under the “Lessons” tab, I’ve included the images, maps, notes, or clips used during various lessons so that the students can review these items whenever they’d like to. I’ve also included the handouts, assignments, and review notes provided in class that students are able to reference when they need to. There are also pages that include history resources, a forum where students can ask questions and comment on class content, and a link to St. Mary’s CSS website.

A course website is a great supplementary resource in that it connects the students with each other and with the teacher outside of the classroom. It is also a great way for absent students to catch up on something that was missed (I could have also added a daily posts/announcements page which I intend on doing when I later revise my site). Additionally, it can provide students with a few great resources to guide them on particular assignments and also provides them with a forum in which they can voice their own questions, concerns, or collaborate together. My site could obviously be improved in many ways, but the reality is that it could work as this type of resource in the classroom and as an extension to student learning.

While a Google Site could work great as a resource in the classroom, this tool also has its limitations. As I mentioned in my first post, I believe technology in the classroom works well so long as it enhances the learning, not shadows it. So, if a teacher begins to rely too much on website (i.e. the course seems like it’s transpiring more online rather than within the classroom itself) then problems might begin to arise. Also, teachers must ensure that students are checking the site regularly in order for it to be an effective resource. Additionally, having a course website with resources might limit the scope of student research and where or how they are looking for information. Nonetheless, if used effectively, I believe some sort of online resource for a course is essential in a 21^st century classroom.