Thursday, February 19, 2015

Using Technology in Documentation

Why didn't I do this BEFORE now!?!

I have seen so many GREAT ideas on Pinterest, especially in the area of School Counseling Programming. In an effort to become more organized, efficient, and data driven, I am entering into the use of Google Drive for all of my important documentation and information.  
 
I have been thinking of new and more efficient ways to document throughout my program. I followed lead of Emily Hansen at Hanselor the Counselor and her blog http://hanselorthecounselor.blogspot.com/2013/07/google-driveyes-please.html in creating my Google Forms.
 
I have created a Direct Counseling Services Form, Indirect Counseling Services Form, and Parent/Guardian Communication Log form on Google Drive; https://drive.google.com/folderview?id=0B9D_2dTr0BicV1hua0FqN3J1Slk&usp=sharing. Google Drive will automatically keep a spreadsheet for all of my parent communications therefore eliminating the need for paper copies! I am also excited in the possibilities of documenting my use of time.

Of course there are always risks with using technology especially as a documentation tool. Considerations I need to be aware of; risks of electronic record keeping and confidentiality. I strongly encourage any professional school counselors considering the use of e-records to consult the 2014 American Counseling Association Code of Ethics, http://www.counseling.org/resources/aca-code-of-ethics.pdf.
 
I am still thinking about other ways I can use Google Drive in my program and will post other ideas that I come up with...needs assessments for students, teachers, and other stakeholders?