Tools to build confidence
In the opening steps of week 2, we’ve looked at how environment is an important factor in creating the right culture to feel digitally confident.
The other aspect to help build teacher confidence with digital tools is appropriate training provision. We are going to look in detail at CPD next week, but at this point, it’s helpful to look at what tools are available via industry partners to help develop teacher confidence.
Most schools will be using devices or platforms provided by Microsoft, Google or Apple. Each of these well-known providers, offer their own online training tools which are specific to their particular technologies. The aim of this course is not to provide this sort of platform/ device specific training but signposting to these resources is an important way of equipping you with the knowledge you need to achieve the SMART targets you set last week.
Below we’ll introduce the training tools provided by Apple, Google and Microsoft. Click on the links to find out more about how each company approaches online learning and what topics are covered.
Apple Teacher Programme is a free professional learning programme designed to support and celebrate educators using Apple products for teaching and learning. The course covers teaching and learning with iPad and Mac. For school leaders, or those responsible for training in their schools, Apple have created a short guide on introducing Apple Teacher to colleagues.
Google’s Training Centre comprises of free, online training that was written by teachers for teachers. It has four main sections- training, certification, resources and community. Within the training section there are two main courses, Fundamentals Training, for those new to Google and Advanced Training for those who already routinely use the tools.
The Microsoft Community has hundreds of courses taking between 1hr and 3hrs to complete and covering a variety of topics. Some courses focus on how to use tools like OneNote, Sway, and Office Mix, while others are more pedagogy based and designed to teach you how to integrate technology into teaching. At the end of the course there is an assessment and if you successfully pass this you earn points.
Alongside these self-paced, online learning options, all three also provide options to gain a formal qualification to recognise digital skills. The links below contain more information on routes to gaining formal accreditation
Have a look at one or more of the training tools above and in the comments section below reflect on whether you find the materials relevant, engaging and confidence building. Explain your answer.
Digital Skills for Teachers: Making Technology Work for You
Digital Skills for Teachers: Making Technology Work for You
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