Why Aren't You Using Google Keep ?

Google Keep is an amazing little web based note taker!

 I can understand now at this point that inviting a new app into your live to keep lists and reminders is a crowded space. But I really want to open your minds to this one. Google Keep has some tremendous benefits for the super busy person who wants labeling in one place.

• Syncs across Google Accounts, Allows Sharing and Exporting to Google Docs
• Provides Notifications and Reminders
• Allows for labeling, labeling
• creating checkboxes and crossing items off of your list without losing the item.
• Allows for archiving, changing of list color and email sharing.
• Has nice smooth web and desktop interface linked with your Google Account.
• It can also be added as a shortcut to your Google Apps(The same place you find Drive and Docs).

I was slow to start using Google Keep as it was very similar to Evernote in its features but as a dedicated Google Docs user the creation of Docs from my lists was the biggest selling point. Additionally, the ability to have a cross platform application that syncs with my Google Desktop as an option makes efficiency when moving from location to location amazingly simple.

Google Keep Desktop View

I have used this app to share lists which are constantly evolving and changing in real time. I have also used this list maker to more easily enable blogging on the run and turning into a Google Doc in a click of a button.

So go ahead download the "Keep" app from Google Play or find the 3rd party "Go Keep" app from the App Store and test out the sharing of lists,notes,photos and whatever your heart desires across email accounts.

Also be sure to view your synced desktop version when logged into your Google Account.

https://keep.google.com/

I think may find yourself returning to it before you know it as your go to list maker/ creative space.

The Difference Between Technology Use in the Classroom and Student Engagement (web 1.0,web 2.0,web 3.0 tools)

When evaluating technology use in the classroom it is important to examine the tools you are currently using and determine if you are using technology tools as a method of one way communication and passive sharing or are you asking students to engage on a deeper level with your content. 

Engaging students often means enabling the to  collaborate with shared documents or completing online assessments prior to entering the classroom.

Differentiating between these tools becomes a matter of understanding the differences between what are commonly called Web 1.0 and Web 2.0 tools. Here are two definitions of these tools as well as the evolving Web 3.0 tools. These are taken from Digital Inspiration (http://www.labnol.org/internet/web-3-concepts-explained/8908/)

Understanding and differentiating how these tools can be used in the classroom is an important decision which impacts the level of integration/collaboration you will get with students. Most 21st century learners engage with the use of 2.0 tools in more impactful ways than the use of “static” read only content of the pre-2006 web. Consider this list when choosing a tool and what the students receptivity to the content will be.

Further Reading:

Key Differences in Web 1.0 & Web 2.0-Web 3.0

http://journals.uic.edu/ojs/index.php/fm/article/view/2125/1972