GAFE Summer Online Course

I decided to try something new over the summer. I created an online course using Moodle as the course management system. The topic was Google Apps for Education.  Teachers could participate in their own space, at their own pace over the course of the summer. I estimated the time to complete the course would be about 9 hours.  I had no idea if teachers would be interested in learning this way, and I wondered if it would work be as effective as traditional face-to-face workshops.

Over 100 teachers and administrators participated and they loved it!  Here are some of their comments:

• I liked the videos and the application opportunities. I also liked reading the discussion forums to get ideas from colleagues.


• I REALLY liked many things about this course. First of all, I liked that both the Tutorials and Hand-outs were available. I like the 2 different modes of learning, which helped me a lot on the tougher apps! I also thought that the tutorial and handouts were extremely specific which REALLY helps others who lack computer skills.
  I also liked working at my own pace. Some of the apps were more of a review for me while others were brand new and required me to move at a slower pace. In traditional PDs, the instructor often has to move on which would add further confusion to my already scrambled brain! In addition, as a result of the step-by-step instruction, I could return to the handout or video when I became stuck. I also enjoyed seeing how others were using the same apps.


• I liked that this course allowed me the flexibility to complete it at my own pace and when I had the time in my schedule. I also liked that it covered a WIDE array of USEFUL information that I can directly apply to my every day teaching.


• I liked being able to go back and listen to a video again if I needed to. I was able to refer back to the documents as I was completing the assignments. I could also work at my own pace!


• I liked that I could work at my own pace and make mistakes on my own time! I also liked the fact that I could read how other people plan on using some of the apps. I also liked how it didn't have a Wham Bam! feel.


• It covered all aspects of google docs and it forced me to be accountable for my work by participating in the forums.


• I liked that the course was more individualized. Everyone has their own comfort level with technology and google. On some of the topics, I was just happy to complete the minimum but on topics I had prior knowledge, I could take it to the next level and develop deeper understanding or more efficient ways of doing things. I feel like I have a head start for this school year.


• I enjoy working at my own pace at home. I tended to work an hour at a time and go back ant try some of the features.
  Online learning is the best kind of learning for me.


• This course helps me feel more comfortable in using the Google apps with my students, which is essential with them using chrome books. It also greatly improves the efficiency within my classroom and communicating with students and parents.


• This gives me a lot of confidence moving forward with Google Docs. Traditionally I am good at figuring things out on my own, but I am positive this was a great way to learn more about GAFE and how I can use it in my educational setting.


• It has given me a solid foundation for the transition to Google Docs. I'm thinking I'll be using something from the course every day!


• I feel more comfortable using Google Apps. Initially, I was a bit freaked out about using it but now I definitely feel more confident.


• I feel so way more confident in google apps. I had done some dabbling with it before but now I am confident. We will be using google chromebooks, so I will use lessons from this class everyday. I am no longer afraid.

The sharing that occurred in the discussion forums was powerful.  Teachers from all levels were eager to learn, brainstorm ideas, and share their experiences with one another.  I am proud!  I'll be doing more of this type of PD in the future.