Learning Google Docs, Screencast-o-matic, Flipgrid, and Jamboard

Part I: A Guide to Google Docs

To hyperlink text in google docs: Video Help

1. highlight the word or phrase you would like to hyperlink

2. right click and choose "link"

3. copy the URL you would like to link

4. paste the URL in the link box

To share and make the doc editable by others:

1. click "share" in the top right corner

2. click "change" in the bottom left of the pop up

3. change the option from "viewer" to "editor"

4. copy link and share

Part II: Starting up Screencast-o-matic

Visit Screencast-o-matic, sign-up, and download.

This software is used to allow others to share your activities on your computer screen. You can record your screen, for things such as tutorials, to allow others to see specific clicks and movements made to help with whatever needed to be shared.

Part III: Figuring Out Flipgrid

Visit Flipgrid and sign up.

This software is used to make short videos and respond to others via video. An instructor can make an introduction video to explain the assignment or add text to give direction. You can add filters and stickers to your videos to personalize them.

Here is an example of the classroom dynamic using Flipgrid.

Example

Part IV: Getting the Gist of Jamboard

This software is a white-board type program that is used for presentation purposes and allows for feedback from students or other participants. You are able to draw on it, add sticky notes, and add photos to convey any idea necessary.

Here is an example of one way you may use Jamboard.

Example

Revisions: I reconfigured the setup of the assignment to make it more reader-friendly. It has been rewritten to give better direction and allow the reader to have an easier time learning about this software.

Analysis: As a freshman in college, I knew I would be learning a lot when I got here, especially in the beginning. This research activity was an introduction to the websites and tools we used throughout the semester. I had never heard of either flipgrid or jamboard, and though I did not become an expert after this first attempt, I became familiar enough so that I could be productive on my own over the course of the semester. Because of the pandemic, everyone is learning how to use technology to communicate and keep daily life as normal as possible. I though this was a great way to introduce the new technology necessary for social distanced learning.