Challenge #7 Chrome

Chrome Selfie

Challenge #7 Chrome

Ironically, this post begins with reflecting on my recent MIE training. I have just finished a (voluntary) two day Microsoft in Education (MIE) PD. For two days I Binged and navigated a browser other than Chrome.  This was accomplished while traversing a different operating system (Windows 8.1 long time no see!) through an unfamiliar device (Microsoft Surface). 

During the last two days my mind kept going back to the Chrome Challenge and working through Unit 9: Teach Students Online Skills . The MIE training gave me a real chance to experience working around technology challenges in a safe environment. This is how my own classroom should be everyday.

Because of the Challenge and my MIE PD I was really able to think about the advantages of Chrome. The support of the Google Community is free, more importantly: easily accessible and available for ALL regardless of devices and browsers.  Chrome/Google works to function as a universal platform that embraces BYOD.  The price point of “free” for add-ons & productivity tools helps narrow the digital divide.

As a learner and an educator I want my time spent on constructing knowledge, creating and sharing. Chrome/Google allows for this by connecting your curated content within the framework of Google’s productivity tools.  I downloaded the additional resources on this challenge page for future instruction.  I am thinking some kind of webquest or scavenger hunt can be created out of the slides. Or even just share the slides and see what kids come up with on their own. 

I like Microsoft products.  I still use them.  They are the workhorses that built the world we live in today.  The trainers at MIE were great and very helpful.  We laughed and learned together.  I connected with friends and made a new one.  After chatting she joined GEG:Oregon and signed up for Camp Chromebook...