Google Spreadsheets

I recently learned that Google Spreadsheets can be accessed and edited from a URL without a google account. So that means anytime I need to collect data with students or teachers in a real time setting, I can set up a Google Spreadsheet, send out the URL, and everyone is literally on the same page at the same time!!! How great is that??

Here's how it works:

Go to Google Docs at: docs.google.com/

To create the initial spreadsheet you must have a Google Account. Sign in to your account (you can use your GMail username and password) and create a new spreadsheet. On the right hand side of the new spreadsheet click on Share, then Get the link to share.

This will bring up a new window where you need to put a check in both boxes to allow multiple users to edit your spreadsheet without Google accounts. If you don't want to allow others to edit the information you can leave the second check box blank. Copy and paste the URL in the box, that is the address your students or participants will need to edit the spreadsheet. I highly recommend taking that long URL and shortening it using sniprul, tinyurl, or any of those websites.