Chromebooks are not just for the “big kids!” 

I hear this comment all the time and it is simply NOT true! Chromebooks are a wonderful device for students of all ages, including early elementary! 

Concern over the initial login process and navigation with a track pad and keyboard frequently prevent elementary teachers from giving Chromebooks a try. 

But here's the thing - these barriers can be overcome. 

I have worked with elementary students and teachers and found Chromebooks to be an awesome device for learning and exploration. 

I created this course to give you tips and advice for using technology in your K-5 classroom. Together we'll explore ideas and strategies that you can begin using immediately!

This course is divided into five lessons that will help you unlock the potential of the Chromebooks in your classroom. Many of these techniques will support things that you are already doing!

Course Objectives  

• Mastering Chromebook settings and features 
• Essential skills to teach your elementary students 
• Identifying the best Chrome apps and extensions for your elementary classroom.
• Implementing 4 proven Chromebook instructional strategies 

You will be working direcly with me, John Sowash, during this course. I am a Google Certified Educator and Trainer as well as the author of the #1 selling book on the use of Chromebooks in the classroom.  

We will use Google Classroom for the course, a tool that you may already be using! 

Note: this is a beginner / intermediate course. No prior experience with Chromebooks is required. Need something more advanced? Check out my upcoming courses here. 

•  Start Date: January 22, 2017
•  End Date: February 25, 2017
• Platform: Google Classroom

•  Cost: $99 only $75 until 1/15!
• Includes a copy of The Chromebook Classroom
•  Register by CC or PO

This course includes a print copy of my latest book, The Chromebook Classroom, the #1 guide to the use of Chromebooks in education. 

It's tough to take full advantage of the Chromebooks in your classroom until you uncover some of the hidden features and capabilities of the device itself. In week 1 you will learn about my favorite Chromebook features a explore the Chrome Webstore. 

Before we introduce students to the Chromebook we need to do some preliminary planning to make sure they are optimized for K-5 students. In week 2 you will select your classroom tools and create a start page for your students. 

Before your students can use Chromebooks independantly they need to develop some basic skills. In week 3 I will share my list of essential technology skills and ideas for introducing them to your students. 

In week 4 we will dig into two instructional strategies for using Chromebooks in your classroom - whole-class instruction and small group projects. I will share some sample lessons with you and you'll have an opportunity to share your ideas with the rest of the class. 

During our final week together we will take a look at ideas for individual projects and station-based activities. You will also have an opportunity to share what ideas you will be implementing into your classroom. 

I taught middle school and high school science for 6 years and was a high school principal for 2 years outside of Detroit, Michigan. During my time as a teacher I integrated technology into my classroom whenever possible. Sometimes it was great, some times it was a total flop! I now support teachers who are working to use tech in their classrooms. I write books, produce a podcast, and share free resources on my blog and website.  

I hope you will join me for this online cours. I look forward to working with you!  

"I really liked the practical tips and tricks for using a Chromebook in younger grades. There have been some challenges using technology at younger grades, so I appreciate all the different suggestions you gave." Allison Keskimaki 

"This was great - it was a nice way to utilize online learning but still have your book as a resource. There were great tips and tricks for those just starting with Chromebooks or for the experienced user." Liza Basden, Highland, IL 

"I thought this was a great course for refreshing what you could do with Chromebooks. I liked how it was interactive but wasn't cumbersome with the amount of work that was required. Thanks for your feedback on assignments!" Kelly Wilson 

"This course has shown me so many new ways that I can use our Chromebooks! It also showed me a lot about apps that I have used, but in new and different ways! I would definitely recommend this course to others who are new or not that familiar with Chromebooks. It has definitely changed my mind on what they are capable of providing for myself and my students." Rose Marie Warrell, Oakley, ID 

Can I earn continuing education credits?

Probably! This course qualifies for continuing education credits in many states. Check with your adminstration to verify specific requirements. 

Michigan teachers are able to earn up to 4 state SCECH credits for completing this course. Additional registration and work may be required.

Is this just another lousy online course?

I certainly hope not! I have worked hard to make this course practical and actionable. This is NOT an automated course. I will be participating in the course throughout the week; answering questons and personally working with the entire group. You can look at the tesimonial section (above) to hear what others are saying.

Can I pay by purchase order?

Sure! Visit the course registration page and look for the PO option. Your school will receive an invoice for your course registration. A PO number is required before you can join the course. 

Why are you charging $99? 

Creating an quality online course requires a tremendous amount of time and preparation. I feel the price is reflective of the value that I am able to provide. 

How much time will I spend on the course?  

Each week has a different focus consisting of 4 parts (learn, practice, share, connect). Each component is designed to be completed in 15-20 min. So expect about 1 hour of classwork work each week.

What equipment / tools will I need?

You will need a copy of The Chromebook Classroom (included), access to Google Classroom, and a computer running the Chrome browser. A Chromebook is recommended, but not required. 

How long will I have access to the course? 

Forever! The course will remain accessible indefinitely, although after the end-date I will no longer be active in the course.

I can't take the course right now. Will it be offered again? 

Probably. If you would like to be notified about future courses, click here.  

What if I have questions or get stuck? 

If you have any issues or concerns, you can connect directly with me via email. My contact information is available in the “about” section of Google Classroom.

I'm not a "techie" person. Is this course for me?

Yes! This particular course is a beginner / intermediate skill level. Google Clasroom is easy to use and I will be with you the entire time! 

Interested, but don't have time to take the course right now? Join my email list and I will let you know when I offer this course again! 

 Sowash Ventures, LLC | 2018