Google for Education Certified Trainer (GECT)
The Google Certified Educator program is designed to equip educators with the knowledge and skills to effectively use Google tools in an educational setting. This certification is available at two levels:
Google Certified Educator Level 1
This level focuses on the fundamental skills for using Google tools in the classroom, covering products like Google Classroom, Google Docs, Google Sheets, and Google Slides. It demonstrates an educator’s ability to successfully implement Google for Education tools in teaching to enhance and streamline workflows and increase student engagement.
Google Certified Educator Level 2
This advanced level delves deeper into integrating Google services in the classroom and requires educators to demonstrate innovative uses and advanced proficiency in Google for Education products.
Career Accelerator Program
The training program for the Google Certified Educator certification is designed to prepare educators to effectively use Google tools in a classroom setting. The program is structured to support educators at different levels of expertise with Google for Education tools and is delivered entirely online, allowing flexibility for educators to engage with the material at their own pace. Here’s an overview of what the training involves
This program not only equips educators with the skills needed to enhance their teaching methodologies, but also supports their professional growth and adaptability in a technology-driven educational environment.
Level 1 Training
- Objective: To get educators started with Google for Education tools.
- Content: The training covers basic features and functionalities of core Google tools such as Google Docs, Google Sheets, Google Slides, Google Forms, Google Drive, and Google Classroom.
- Format: Online courses that include video tutorials, hands-on practice exercises, and review questions to test understanding.
Level 2 Training
- Objective: To deepen understanding and enhance the integration of Google tools in educational practices.
- Content: Advanced training focuses on creating engaging and interactive learning experiences using Google tools. It also explores ways to integrate these tools to foster collaboration among students and streamline administrative tasks.
- Format: Similar to Level 1, this also includes video tutorials, practical exercises, and assessments. However, the tasks are more complex and require creative use of multiple tools in conjunction.
The development program for becoming a Google Certified Educator is designed to ensure that educators are well-versed in using Google’s suite of tools to enhance teaching and learning environments. The program is structured in stages to accommodate educators at various levels of proficiency with Google tools.
Step 1: Training Preparation
Educators start by familiarizing themselves with the Google for Education tools. Resources are available on the Google Teacher Center, which provides comprehensive guides, tutorials, and best practices for using tools like Google Classroom, Google Docs, Google Forms, and others effectively.
Step 2: Online Training Courses
Google offers structured training courses for both Level 1 and Level 2 certifications. These courses are self-paced and include:
- Level 1 Courses: Aimed at beginners, covering the basics of Google tools.
- Level 2 Courses: More advanced, focusing on sophisticated integrations and innovative uses of Google technology in education.
Step 3: Hands-On Practice
Throughout the training, educators engage in various activities that mimic real-world classroom scenarios to apply what they have learned. This practice is crucial for understanding how to integrate these tools into daily teaching tasks effectively.
Step 4: Joining a Community
Educators are encouraged to join the Google Educator Groups (GEGs) and other online communities where they can connect with peers, share insights, and gain additional support while going through the certification process.
Step 5: Certification Exams
After completing the training courses, educators need to pass the certification exams to prove their proficiency. These exams test practical skills in using Google for Education tools to solve typical classroom and administrative tasks.
Step 6: Continuous Learning and Renewal
Once certified, educators are expected to keep their skills up-to-date. Google requires periodic renewal of the certification to ensure that educators remain current with the latest tools and educational strategies.
Benefits of the Program
- Professional Development: Enhances an educator’s skills and knowledge in digital tools for teaching.
- Recognition: Provides official recognition from Google, validating the educator’s expertise in using technology in education.
- Network Building: Offers access to a global community of educators, which can be a valuable resource for collaboration and learning.
Google offers a range of certifications for educators, including the Google Certified Educator Level 1 and Level 2, as well as the Google Certified Trainer and Google Certified Innovator certifications. These are designed to help educators effectively use Google tools in their teaching.
Google Certified Educator Level 1 and Level 2: These certifications validate your expertise in using Google for Education tools at a foundational level (Level 1) or advanced level (Level 2), focusing on integrating these tools into teaching and learning.
Google Certified Trainer: Aimed at those who want to train others on Google’s suite of tools, this certification recognizes advanced skills and a commitment to helping other educators transform their classrooms with technology.
Google Certified Innovator: This is for educators who are creative leaders and wish to develop new approaches to educational challenges. It involves participating in an Innovator Academy and completing an innovation project.
These certifications are available online and can be pursued at one’s own pace. They require passing exams and, for some levels, completing projects or ongoing learning to maintain the certification​
Career Opportunities and Benefits
Enhanced Teaching Skills: Both certifications encourage educators to harness Google tools to create effective and engaging learning environments, which can improve teaching outcomes and student learning experiences.
Professional Growth: Achieving Google certifications can enhance an educator’s resume by showcasing their technical skills and commitment to continual professional development. This can be beneficial for career advancements within educational institutions.
Training Opportunities: Certified educators may find opportunities to train other teachers, increasing their influence and professional network. This is particularly relevant for those who pursue the Google Certified Trainer certification.
Global Recognition: Being a Google Certified Educator signals to current and prospective employers that the individual is proficient in the latest educational technologies and practices, aligning with global education standards.
Community and Networking: Certifications grant access to a community of like-minded educators, offering networking opportunities and access to exclusive resources and events.
Innovation in Education: Especially for those who reach the Innovator level, there are opportunities to work on new solutions for educational challenges, gaining recognition and support from a global community.
