Thursday, March 5, 2015

Google EdTech Teacher Jamboree

In January, I applied to attend a conference hosted by Google. Yes, Google. I submitted my proposal and then was over the moon to find out I was accepted to come spend the day learning about amazing ways Google can be used to enhance learning in the classroom.
It was surreal to show up at the Google HQ in Cambridge, a swanky building next to MIT. Given a visitors badge, and some swag, and then taken up to the center of their creative space.

The theme for the day was Education Technology - how can we technology be used in real purposeful ways in the classroom. We heard four keynote speakers, they just blew me away. They each talked about how they feel technology, teaching, and Google can effect the students we teach. 
Some of the most powerful quotes in my mind were: 

"It's empowering to know something (sic) in an arena that's authentic."  
"We have unparalleled tools to collaborate. Working with anyone anywhere anytime anyplace in the world"
"If we're asking kids to google the answer were asking the wrong question" - @Mtdasilv
"Having a conversation that backs off don't crash into the sun or fly too close to the earth. How do we find our way in between?"
Amazing, right? I then took a session on using tablets in the classroom, since I likely will have some type next year. She pushed us to find ways to use tablets and apps in meaningful ways. She challenged us to not just find apps to cover whatever unit you're teaching, but use the technology to advance children's thinking and curiosity.

After the session we were able to take tours (no photos allowed) and chat with the amazing minds in the Ed Tech department at Google. I still cannot believe I spent the day at Google, cannot wait to really apply everything I learned about to my classroom!
Little by Little
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21 thoughts on the matter:

Anonymous said... {Reply}

Very exciting!

Unknown said... {Reply}

AWESOME! Totally jealous.

-Nicky @ Awesomeville.co.uk

Linda Kay said... {Reply}

How exciting for your students, Tamar. Teaching with tablets has to be a whole new experience for teachers, but of great benefit to students who adapt so well to the technology. They will be showing you how to do things in a couple of sessions.

Ohmydearests said... {Reply}

SO exciting! My girls will attend a primary school (from 6)) where they use ipads.

Kim Stevens said... {Reply}

Well, that's just so awesome Tamar....Our school district implemented tablets to every school (every child) last year.

You are a mover and a shaker, do you know that! xo

tiarastantrums said... {Reply}

oh - I would have loved this!! did you love it?

carol l mckenna said... {Reply}

How wonderful you and creative photos!
Congrats to you ~ ^_^

Happy Weekend coming to you,
artmusedog and carol

Jill Foley said... {Reply}

What a cool opportunity!

Kim Cunningham said... {Reply}

That sounds incredible! I'm so happy they chose you! Can't wait to see how you incorporate these ideas.

Claire Justine said... {Reply}

oh wow, this sounds like an exciting day, I loved watching the Google film :) bet you had a great day..

Anonymous said... {Reply}

You lucky lucky girl!!

Nancy said... {Reply}

They are building a new Google building across the river in Iowa.. how cool you got to visit!

Heather{Our Life In a Click} said... {Reply}

That is SO cool! It sounds like a great conference and opportunity!! I figured you wouldn't be allowed any photos inside..that makes sense!

Sian said... {Reply}

Well that's awesome!

Balot's Chatter said... {Reply}

So jealous! I bet you see their driverless car :D

Balot's Chatter said... {Reply}

So jealous! I bet you see their driverless car :D

Serendipityissweet said... {Reply}

Sounds like a great experience!

Rainey said... {Reply}

I so want a treadmill desk! That looks like a fantastic experience!

abrianna said... {Reply}

That does sound interesting. We had trouble with your Internet connection this past week. Good thing I was not relying on it for my class, but I know other teachers who were and were frustrated since it not working disrupted their plans.

betty-NZ said... {Reply}

What a great opportunity!!

Shoshanah said... {Reply}

What an awesome opportunity! I'd love to be able to visit Google someday.