Challenge 7: Chrome (Second Try)

Challenge 7: Chrome--2nd try

So I tried to do this again, and I am glad that I did. I was able to go through the lessons on teaching online skills. What I really liked about this lesson was what it can offer students--a way for them to practice some critical thinking skills and a way to be a more astute researcher. The big take away for me was the "rule of 3" where students should be able to find 3 different sources that have the same information before believing it.

How would I use it in the classroom? In teaching social studies this year, I will ask students to do research. They will have to provide some of the "proof" that their sources are good ones, such as the rule of 3, using websites that are reliable sources, such as one with a .gov or .edu ending. 

I might also have them do some scavenger hunts on-line as well.

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...

Challenge 7: Chrome

Challenge 7: Chrome

Okay, so I started this challenge and I really don't think I did the right thing. I started working through the "fundamentals training" and then working on some of the "advanced training" (especially as part of the advanced google apps for education training class. 

I got way too into this. There is a lot of information in the fundamentals and advanced training! I am currently done with 7/13 of the fundamental units, and 2/9 of the advanced units. 

On reflection, I am way overwhelmed with what I have learned. I think that it is something that is going to come out over the course of the school year. I really like the way that forms can provide differentiation--I see this working very well for my classes, as my students are all over the place skill-wise. I can help students work on the skills they need to work on individually, and can create a "choose your own adventure" task in both my social studies, math, support classes, and working with student as they work on their transition goals.

To do this, I will need to spend some time finding some good content that works well for my students--that isn't too belittling, but also gets at their skill sets.

These lessons also made me think about my task working with juniors and seniors as they work through their transition goals. I want to create some sort of file for each student that provides them a space online to create a portfolio of work--getting information on work goals, educational goals, and independent living goals. It would also have a copy of their resume, cover letter, essays and applications to help them get on their way. I would need to differentiate these files to help students work at their own levels.

I also am starting to think about resources that I can use based on what I learned with staff. We (the sped staff) are going to do a professional development in August. I would love to use some of the things that I learned to help with the PD.

• I started working on a google doc with links in it for our department to use to prepare for the PD.
• Creating a form to test their knowledge at the end.
• A questionnaire to see what the whole staff would like more training about.
• Creating a google doc with resources for staff to use through the year. 

Again, this wasn't what challenge 7 was supposed to be. I don't know if this should be one of the "Arts and Crafts" challenges?

Challenge 7

Challenge 7

Chrome has been my go-to browser all year....quick and easy.  Today I signed into  Chrome for the first time and synched my home PC with all of the bookmarks I've acculated this last academic year.  I also customized my Chrome with a theme and several apps to block ads......that will simplify the look of Chrome when I project it for the class  on my classroom PC......so happy that that is available.  The floating ads were making me crazy.  Also, synching m y Chrome account with the classroom computer will alleviate me needing to buy a cable for projecting the Chrome.

Welcome!

This blog is the shared space for anyone participating in the PPS EdTech Summer Camp! Through a series of creative challenges, you will build your own knowledge and skill in using technology to create and share. Each challenge asks you to share on this group blog and include a brief reflection. What does that mean? 

The reflection should capture your experience and your thinking about the challenge and the tool you explored. Here are some questions to guide you as you write your blog posts:

• What did you create, and why? 
• What went well for you?
• What was challenging?
• What did you enjoy? 
• What ideas do you have for using this tool with your students, or for using this tool to communicate with families? 

You don’t have to answer all of these questions, but hopefully, they'll help you get started!