Recently a question to the Techy Coach was posted regarding the ability to reserve Chromebook Carts. A teacher is asking if there is a good way to use a Google Form to reserve carts, and also populate a calendar event automatically.

There are a few ways to do this, but if you are a Google Apps for Education (GAFE) User, the best way is through the use of Google Calendar Appointment Slots.   Appointment Slots are an option available to GAFE Users on Google Calendar, that allow you the benefit of assigning slots in your calendar that users can click on to reserve almost anything you choose.  One of the best uses besides checking out equipment is as a means of booking Parent Conferences.  Watch this video or view the steps below to get started:

1. Open http://calendar.google.com
   

2. Login and click anywhere on your calendar to create an appointment.
3. Click Appointment Slots at the  top of the box.
4. Enter a name for the “what” portion of the event, such as “Chromebook Reservation”
5. Be sure to choose the correct Calendar that you want your appointment slots to appear in. If you have not already done so, it might be a good idea to create a secondary calendar other than  your personal calendar for Appointment Slots.  To create a secondary Calendar, watch this video.
6. Click Edit Details.  A full screen editor will open.
7. Edit the details of your appointment slots, including time blocks, and how often the slots will repeat on the calendar.
8. Copy the Link to your Appointment Slots and share with your colleagues.
9. Save your event.