GAIN: Google Forms

Google Forms

Initial Reaction:
          Prior to this course in Special Issues in Technology, I have utilized Google Forms as means to collect information on what individuals value the most in friendships.  Through collecting over 100 responses and evaluating the data through Google Sheets, I was better able to assess what qualities individuals uphold.  Although I did not go further into research on this topic, I understand how utilizing the data tool can assist in classroom research.  In order to practice utilizing Google Forms, I created another form (link posted below).  Through utilizing Google Forms to create a self grading quiz, I created a general knowledge geography quiz which is linked to a spreadsheet that calculates scores.  A word of caution to a new user: this process is much simpler to follow than written instructions make it out to be.  The links show how a self grading quiz should be structured.

Link to Google Form Survey:
http://goo.gl/forms/oiu7RIYmM1

Link to Spreadsheet Responses:
https://goo.gl/m6YKm2

Forms in Schools
          Through utilizing Google Forms in the education setting, students and teachers are able to collect data from varying sources (such as community members) through sending the survey via email, URL, or social media.  This enables individuals to evaluate data which is sent directly to Google Sheets.  Not only is this a helpful tool to gain knowledge which pertains to the classroom at large, but Google Forms also is a vehicle to present knowledge and ideas which connect to Common Core State Standards.  The advantage to utilizing Google Forms within the classroom is the option for students to gain perspectives from other individuals to which they can form opinions about issues (as mentioned in the aforementioned CCSS).  Although this is the only CCSS listed in Michael Graham's textbook, I believe Google Forms can meet standards for collaboration and technology.  Through including Google Forms in a research/opinion writing assignment, students would be able to effectively collect data on a specific topic (meeting collaborative CCSS, research CCSS, technology CCSS, and presentation CCSS).
          Google Forms is also a useful tool to access for measuring assessment.  Because tests and quizzes can be created and linked easily to Google Sheets, teachers can evaluate student responses and quickly view which questions need to be readdressed based on those responses.  Because of the regulations placed on educators to utilize summative assessments, Google Forms fits adequately in meeting those requirements.  Overall, I believe this tool would be an effective means to gather information to use for research purposes within the classroom setting.