Assignment Findings

Overview of Platform

The features of Google Sites are demonstrated in the design of the site itself rather than in writing (exploratory learning).

Have fun exploring!

History of Google Sites

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Google_Sites

Intended Audience

Students.

Key Features

Polling, Class Calendaring, Reading List, Useful Links, Class Photo's, Class announcements, and meeting in the Live Discussion document.

Strengths of the Platform

Accessibility - The class site can be limited to the school, class, students, and parents. It is also web based and therefore accessible anywhere on the internet.

Security - Built on Google's platform it is secure up to enterprise or government levels. It uses HTTPS and SSL technology.

Flexibility - It can be edited using drag and drop tools as well as HTML and other code driven gadgets. It is also integrated with all of Google's other products such as YouTube, Picasa, Maps, Docs, Calendar, and Analytics.

Recommendations for Improvement

Coding

More CSS and Javascript capabilities.

User Interface

Google Groups gadget, editing ability for footer, and more control over the themes/background.

Usability

It is very simple and easy to use and create. The back links and hypertext embedded in page titles and navigation bar on the left side makes it more simple to come find your way around the site.

Technical Support

Ample support is given as evidenced by articles and thousands of forums here.

Recommendations for Pro. Dev. & K-12 int.

It can be used as a wiki for collaboration or a place to meet, socialize, and discuss relevant topics.

Additional Information

It's free!