Tool 4: cool is an understatement!

First of all, let me just say "hats off" to The Common Craft guy Lee LeFever's videos, as well as the other video tutorials.  They explain things in plain language, and are very helpful!

Now, Google Docs and Google Readers are TOO cool!  Why didn't I know about these years ago?  How long have these tools been around?  These guys are going to streamline my life!

Google Docs - you're my new best friend!  I've created so many schedules, contact/budget spreadsheets, and articles, in the past that required an exchange of emails and lots of time passed.  Now, Google Docs will save me so much work and time.  I've created a Google Doc with my teaching schedule on it.

I'll be able to send it to the other intervention teachers at my school to ask for their input, as well as to my principal and assistant principal.  This will also be helpful in planning school events, or getting feedback from a committee without having to hold a meeting - how exciting!

I subscribed to the following sites with my Google Reader:

Becoming a 21st Century Learner
Live 2 Learn & Learn 2 Live
Superthorn2
Renee's Blog
Word Work

I can see how these tools will increase efficient communication and collaboration between teachers - whether it be in team planning for an event or lesson, sharing insights over a professional piece discussed at a staff or literacy team meeting, or reading up and engaging in educational discussion.  As a direct result, students will benefit from higher quality instruction from their teachers.