Using Cloud Editing Tools for Teaching and Learning: A Google Docs Resource

Cloud editing tools, such as Google Docs, with their key ability of collaborative documents creation in real time, can be used for teaching in traditional face to face teaching. Some of the benefits that have been... [ view full abstract ]

Cloud editing tools, such as Google Docs, with their key ability of collaborative documents creation in real time, can be used for teaching in traditional face to face teaching. Some of the benefits that have been highlighted in the past include improved communication between teacher and learners, more effective feedback, facilitated group work and improved student engagement in typically introvert students. 

The aim of this presentation is to introduce a pragmatic learning resource for teachers who may wish to introduce the use of such cloud editing tools in their practice but who are unsure how to start.

The resource demonstrates the practical benefits of using cloud editing tools for teaching, briefly introduces the key research findings on its effectiveness,  illustrates how Google Docs can be used on a daily basis for teaching and offers pragmatic advice for its introduction based on five years of teaching experience involving over 500 students.

The all-in-one online resource is itself based on Google Docs and combines videos, quizzes, exercises and sample teaching material. The resource is open, free to reuse or repurpose and highly maintainable. All teachers are encouraged to contribute to its evolution via standard Google Docs comments and suggestions.