[elawson3]

Hi Everyone! I just got hired as the Technology Coach for my school district. For the upcoming school year, every high school teacher and student will get a Chromebook. My job is to "train" the teachers on how to utilize these Chromebooks to the fullest. Even though I am familiar with Google and its apps, I have not worked with a Chromebook before and neither have the teachers. I'm not concerned about myself because I get one to play around with next week, but here is what my administrators want me to work on for the teachers:
Where should our teachers "be" by January 2015 in relation to the Chromebooks, and what steps should be taken each month to "get them there"?

What do you think I should work on with these teachers? Should I start with Google basics? Gmail....Google Drive....or how to interact with the Chromebook itself? Are there any other Technology Specialists or Coaches out there that could give me ideas on how to get started?

Thank you!!!
O.F Tech. Coach

 

[Robbie Dalziel]

The Chromebook...

I'm no expert as far as the Chromebook is concerned Elawson3, but one thing I can tell you, is that it's somewhat removed from the standard laptop/PC, both in general and keyboard functionality...

Given your set time schedule, I would suggest you obtain your personal equipment as soon as you can, to allow you the maximum amount of time to familiarize yourself with it's quirky, yet interesting operational requirements...

The operating system, is quite simple, being based on nothing more than a browser ~ such being Google Chrome: and no other... It has it's own basic, but sufficient office style programme, can do more or less anything a standard computer can do (sometimes in a roundabout way) and in odd cases, is easier to handle that the real McCoy... Printing is via cloud and or networked systems and is as versatile as could be wished for...

I've had mine for three months and as yet, I've not learnt all the tricks of the trade... But there again, I've not been 100% involved with it's capabilities, as you will no doubt need to be, if you are to meet your suggested agenda... However, I have reached the stage, where I'm able to provide general tuition to other people... So, if I can be of assistance in any way, don't hesitate to drop me a PM...

Hope that gives you a starting point from which the input from others, will help broaden the overall picture...

Robbie Dalziel... Birmingham...

 

[tek_addict]

Hello Tech Coach, I suggest you start with finding the teachers that are willing to be advocates for your district. If you can get these on-board and excited it will make your job a lot easier. I am not an expert but I have a very curious desire to understand the chrome ecosystem.
Best Regards, Tek_addict