Journal #6

Google+ : The Complete Guide

Parr, B. (2011, July 16). Google+: The complete guide. Retrieved from http://mashable.com/2011/07/16/google-plus-guide/

Summary: This article discussed the many features of Google+ and had an in depth explanation of its various tools and services it offers as a competitive social networking site to Facebook.  The author started by discussing many of the features including an overview of why people were choosing Google+ as opposed to Facebook. Some deemed it as a much cleaner way to selectively share data with others and having a much higher level of engagement. Some of the features of Google+ discussed in this article included Stream (a newsfeed), Sparks (a recommendation engine), Hangouts (a video chat service), Huddle (a group texting service), Circles (a friend management service) and Photos. He describes step-by-step exactly how to set up your profile and how to manage your account. At the end of the article, the author discusses what is next in regards to Google+. Be on the look out for a questions page (similar to Facebook questions) as well as Google+ games.

Q1. How could Google+ be a positive resource in the classroom?

A1. I think Google+ could potentially be a great resource in the classroom. It helps educators connect to each other and share resources and lesson plans, also a great way to get advice with tough academic issues. The only thing that teachers need to be aware of when using a site like this, is not to share too much personal information due to privacy issues, especially with students.

Educators- Google Plus is for You

Brogan, C. (2011, Sept 30). Educators- Google Plus is for you. Retrieved from http://www.chrisbrogan.com/gpluseducators/

Summary: This article related Google+ back to education. He gave you examples on how to integrate this site into your classroom. He gave the idea to create a circle for your class and upload lesson plans, videos, interesting articles etc. Having students share documents, draw together on a collaborative whiteboard, or even check-in at locations for certain projects were some of the other ideas he discussed.

Q2. Is Google+ too technologically advanced for some classrooms?

A2. I have to say that the ideas that Brogan gave in his article seemed to be something aimed at a higher age group such as high school students. Google+ is definitely an advanced site and it would have to be explained in depth to students before teachers could implement it as a tool in their classes. This would take a lot of time, especially with students who may not have a computer at home or students with learning disabilities. It is a great idea to have Google+ as a resource, but these issues definitely have to be taken into account when deciding whether it is the best option to use between educators or to use it in teacher-student relationships.