Google Docs is a word processor, web-based software which could be easily and effectively used by educators in the classroom for both – individual and collaborative – activities. The variety of text editing features can make any writing assignment (journals, researches, projects) look more interesting and appealing. Students can choose different styles of fonts, add pictures or videos.
Because Google Docs acts as a share space many users may edit the document at the same time (life editing). Such situation promotes quick and constant feedback from the teacher and collaboration between the learners (anyone the doc is shared with can have an input).
The document is saved on Google Drive and can be accessible from any location so students can work on a project anywhere (possible form of homework assignment; access to lectures in case of student’s sickness; communication and collaboration between school etc.).
The way the documents are stored allows users to create folders and organize their works in categories (sorting and organizing skills). The revision history provides and overview of the actions taken by different authors of the collaborative document (teacher can reconstruct the learning process).
Google Docs can definitely be a helpful tool in student-centered approach to teaching.