Google has not only taken over the world, but they are positioned to take over many of the classrooms! There are many Google resources and applications that can be utilized in the classroom. Below you will find them organized into the following categories: Applications (downloads); Collaboration; Research Resources and Other Resources.
Google Maps allows you to Mark your favorite places on your map, draw lines and shapes to highlight paths and areas, add your own text, photos, and videos, and share your map with friends and family
This is a list of educators who are using Google Wave. It gives information about where they are located and how to contact them. If you're using this tool, it might be a good start for building a PLN.
This is an awesome utility that stores your favorites/bookmarks on a server and is constantly syncing what's on the server to what's in your browser. But more importantly you have access to all of your bookmarks wherever you are, you just have to log in. And when you get a new computer or try out a new browser you can download them into your new browser. And you can create bookmark profiles to keep personal computer bookmarks separate from Tablet PC bookmarks, etc. Not so much Web 2.0 but it's a Godsend! And your students can snyc their existing bookmarks onto their new netbooks!
Project-based learning can pose challenges for teachers as well as students, especially when both are new to this approach. As Bianca discovered, some project management skills may need to be taught explicitly. Formative assessment has to happen early and often, and a teacher needs to be ready with support for students who are struggling. Handing over responsibility to the learner happens gradually, not all at once.
Good projects -- like real-life challenges -- also teach us about persistence. Figuring out what to do if you encounter challenges is part of the learning experience.