This is similar to Facebook’s Pages
(designed for businesses, organi-
zations, and brands), only with
Google+ Pages, users can create
specific pages for different classes,
groups, periods, etc. Creating
a page, which serves as a home
base, is similar to creating another
profile. After users create their pages,
they can choose to create a community under that page.
For example, if I create a page called “Instructional Technology,” I can then create communities for different teams
of teachers I’m working with. Or I can create a community
under my primary profile.
A page differs from a community in that it has its own
circles. Communities are not necessarily tied to specific
circles but are tied to individual members. On a Page, all
interaction takes place in status updates and profile comments. In Communities, members can post and view content or comment, not just view and post to the owner’s or
manager’s posts.
Another advantage of having a Page is that when users
create a You Tube channel, they will automatically have a
Google+ Page that corresponds to their channel. This is a
great way to connect online video publishing to the more
social features of Google+. For example, we recently created
a You Tube channel to publish student-created technology
tutorials and tips. Having a Google+ Page in conjunction
with this You Tube channel has strengthened how we inform,
involve, and share the products our students are creating.
Google+ is not your grandfather’s
video chat or instant message!
As social software and video
conferencing applications
evolve, they simulate more
traditional face-to-face com-
munication. Google+ Hangouts
videoconferencing allows users
to simultaneously collaborate on a
Google Doc, view a You Tube video, and use screen share
and other apps. You can also stream your Hangout on
You Tube and archive it using the “On Air” function. What
a powerful way to capture collaborative efforts and conver-
sations! With the On Air function, unlimited people can
view the conversation, and all viewers can post text com-
ments. This is a great way to hold a public conference or
share an interview.
Remember, most of the features that enhance classroom
activities also work for educator professional development,
particularly Pages, Communities, and Hangouts, which are
great tools for educators to share, collaborate, and teach
each other.
Rolling Out Google+
Before embarking on any technological addition or change,
it is important to update students and faculty about your
district’s acceptable use policy and review digital citizenship guidelines. Initially, one of our network managers
was opposed to this tool because he feared that students
would make poor decisions and post inappropriate content. Clearly, districts must decide what’s appropriate
based on students’ ages and ability levels.
However, incorporating tools and technologies that
are accessible outside of education helps students prepare
for career readiness, higher education, and community
involvement. Real-world tools allow users to employ
Pages Hangouts
Before choosing any tool, consider the return on users’ investment. They should be easy to locate
and simple to navigate, and they should allow users to interact in efficient ways.
of education helps students prepare for career readiness,
