5 ideas for a spreadsheet application

First to report back from the meeting and promote the use of Excel or another spreadsheet applications I would choose a spreadsheet project that would create enthusiasm and by-in on the programs uses.  Keeping that in mind the project must be an idea that makes the teachers life easier or more efficient.  I was amazed that Julie G almost was brought to tears when we explored the rubistar web app.  So during the meeting a dialogue would be started on what ways an Excel app. may improve your teaching career.

Another idea deals with a spreadsheet application as a database.  Teacher colleagues are always in need of supplies and sundries that are useful in the classroom.  I would suggest to my co-workers and I inventory their items using a spreadsheet program.  I would ask that the listed items be placed in a public forum for the teachers such as Google docs.  This idea not only takes care of the budget deficit that teachers encounter daily but also enhances team building. Those who do want to share do not have to participate.

One great use I found for Excel and other spreadsheet apps. is the ability to create forms and or documents in which spaces are left intentionally blank for the user to input.  A suggestion for the staff would be to create a template based off of a spreadsheet app. and then adapt for specific use.  The template would be recognized easily by the students and universal throughout the school.  This provides consistency which directly relates to a recognition of Mal information.  Plus, how great would it be if one more thing was taken off your plate when you are an educator.

My fourth idea is an anonymous reward system based off a spreadsheet application.  The students names would be named and anybody can recognize the student for going above the standards in specific categories, I.E. safety, enthusiasm, helping others, and other positive categories.  The system can be as simple as a tick mark and a simple explanation.  The remarks would have to be checked for validity, and tactful writing.  I believe if peers and students always have these categories on their mind an environment will be created in which others tend to try to achieve a mark in the categories provided.

Lastly, for  curriculum based spreadsheet project, I think that meta-cognition is important, one category particularly would be t.v. watching time vs computer use time vs playing outside.  Children must recognize the use of their time. To do this recording on a spreadsheet would be perfect.