Google Teacher Academy Application Tips

As I start to apply for Summer 2015 professional development, I can't help but reflect on some of the PD opportunities that I've had in the past. One of the most influential workshops I have attended was a Google Teacher Academy last December. I read a number of blog posts from Google Certified Teachers before applying to GTAUK, and I found the advice from previous GCTs to be immensely helpful. So, here are just a few tips that helped me to (successfully!) complete my application. Please note: this is just a reflection on my own application process - I hope it can help other GTA hopefuls!

First off, Google Teacher Academy (GTA) is a two day workshop facilitated by Computer Using Educators (CUE). Workshops take place at Google offices around the world, and sessions are presented by master teachers and Google employees. Attendees have the opportunity to present brief demos on the second day, which follows more of a relaxed, "unconference" format. At the end of the conference, attendees are considered Google Certified Teachers.

In my application, I was totally honest. I knew I was not the most tech savvy teacher in the world - heck, I don't even think I am the most tech savvy teacher in my school! But as a library media specialist, I knew that I would have many opportunities to implement the things I would learn at GTA. My district had become a GAfE school a year before I started my application, and I knew our students could be getting so much more out of their Google accounts. I also love learning new things that will make my teaching better, and I hope that came across in my brief essays. So, I tried to elaborate on the ways that I could implement technology and enact change in my school.

With that said, I knew that my video (posted below) would not be the best submission CUE would receive from a GCT hopeful. As a college English major turned tech nut, I had to bank on the fact that my writing skills were better than the average applicant. To see some really impressive video examples, search YouTube - all application videos have to be set to public and posted in YouTube. Although I am sure that the video is an important aspect of the application, and I certainly did put time and thought into mine, I would bet that I spent just as much time on the written portion of the application. There are restrictions on the number of characters an applicant can use per answer, and I made sure not to exceed the maximum. I worked full page responses down to short paragraphs, and I can only think that my concise answers helped my application.

I also focused on my leadership skills and opportunities. I had taught PD in the past, and I knew I would have additional opportunities to teach teachers if I were to attend a GTA. I am also involved in a number of professional organizations, which would provide opportunities to be a conference session presenter.

No matter what happens, keep trying! I am not accepted into every professional development opportunity I apply for, but applying at least gives me a shot! Fascinating professional development opportunities always invigorate me as a teacher. Most importantly, I think that continual professional development keeps our lessons current, meaningful, and engaging for our kids. Good luck!