Where to begin?

Ok. So once the initial swishing of the light saber is over, it is time to holster that weapon and work on the training needed so I can be a Jedi of Chromebooks. (yes, I plan to see how far I can take this Star Wars analogy)

The first thing I did was visit the Google Training Center for education. Now, I've been using Google Apps for Education for some time now, but decided it would be a good idea to revisit/refresh by going through the fundamentals training. I also plan to pay the 10.00 for the certification when I have completed and pass the test. Here's how far I have gotten so far:

There are 13 units in this training session. Then there is an advanced training (which I am saving for when I get the Chromebook in my hot little hands). 

There is also - wait for it - a devices training. Now, not only does this offer training in using the Google apps with Android devices, but also - more relevant for this blog - training in using Chromebooks. Oh, yes!! So, after I complete this set of training, I will be going on to the devices training.

So how has the training been, you may ask? Well, so far so good. The trainings include helpful links (I have been bookmarking many of them), instruction, video, and audio files. Much is review, but there have been some cool things I have not seen yet. For example, I am in LOVE with the Google Keep app. Oh, my goodness. For someone like me who loves sticky notes, who is horribly unorganized, and who spends a lot of time online this is awesome. I can also see some potential classroom applications for my students. If you have not seen it, you really should check it out: 

Go to the Google Products link to see all the cool apps - like this one!

I have also been getting some great ideas for keeping reading logs in the classroom using Google Sheets or Forms, having students track their own progress, etc. Something else that is pretty awesome is how many other programs and apps work with Google and Google Classroom. The more I dig in there, the more excited I become. 

I remember when I was able to integrate technology with laptops for every student in my previous district. I found myself stepping down and acting more like a facilitator than the oracle on high. It was amazing. I am so excited to see so many different tools that will allow me to do so once again. 

Is the training worth it? Absolutely. Whether you are getting Chromebooks or not, in a one-to-one situation or not, if you plan to use Google tools AT ALL in your classroom - it is worthwhile. You don't HAVE to get the certification. The training is free. Will I get the certification? You bet. I like having those little badges to add to my website and my email signature. Yes, I like the cool gadgets and toys. It is also a way to let people know that I care enough to take that extra step so I can do more with and for my students and their parents.

Signing off for today. I will try finishing the training tomorrow. I'll let you know how it goes. In the meantime, may the force be with you!