Screencasting and Google Docs

This week in class we worked with screencasting and Google Docs.  Both of these methods can be extremely helpful in the classroom.  Google Docs allows you to create text documents, presentations, and tests for your students to view online.  Below are examples of classroom materials I was able to create with Google Docs.

The first support material created is Google Docs version of a PowerPoint.  This is just a small sample of what can be done with the program, but if posted on Google Docs, or any website, students are able to view the presentation I create.  You are welcome to click through simple presentation created.

Another great aspect of Google Docs is the ability to create tests that your students can take online.  Go ahead and try mine!  This is just a simple test I created as a pre assessment for an American Revolution unit.  When anyone takes this test (even right here on my website), the results are sent to my Google Docs account.  I can see everyones responses in a simple, spreadsheet form.  This is a very effective resource to use in the classroom.

Below is a great tool for ANY classroom.  This website, screencast-o-matic.com, allows you to create your own "screencast" for the classroom.  With this, you can create a screen capture recording, with your voice recorded while you search the internet!  It is good for giving tutorials for how to work certain computer programs or websites, especially when you can not be there.  Also, this can be posted online so students can always go back and watch your screencast, and touch up on previous classes.  Below is a short tutorial on how to use Instagrok.