Working together: cloud and in person
Cloud tools let people work on one project from different places and even at different times. Everyone sees the newest version, people can leave comments, and nobody has to travel. In person, you see faces, hear voices and share jokes, and it is easier to notice how others feel. So can online teamwork be as personal as being together? There is no single right answer. A good opinion has three parts: say what you think, give a reason, and mention the other side. For example: ‘I think online teamwork can be personal if we also talk, because we hear each other’s ideas, but a handshake is only possible in person.’ Another question is whether all the changes cloud tools brought are good. They save time and make sharing easy, but they need the internet, and spending more time on screens leaves less time face to face. Think about how you could use cloud tools in daily life, and try new tools only with a grown-up.
| Working in the cloud | Working in person |
|---|---|
| from different places | in the same room |
| everyone sees the newest version | faces, voices and jokes |
| comments and feedback in writing | easier to notice feelings |
| needs the internet | needs travel or a meeting place |
| Use | Tool | Permission |
|---|---|---|
| recipe book | word processor | edit |
| chores chart | spreadsheet | edit |
| birthday slideshow | presentation program | view only |
Agree or disagree. Stand on one side of the room for each statement: ‘Working online can be as personal as working together.’ ‘All the changes cloud tools brought are good.’ Give one reason for your side and listen to one reason from the other side. Then write three ways you could use cloud tools in a day, with a grown-up.