The How and Why of Becoming Google Certified

Do you need to go through the entire fundamental course?

The answer is no. However, I did so in order to learn as much as possible and not miss out on anything. If you feel confident in the content, go to the end of each unit in the training and complete the Unit Review to test yourself on the material. When satisfied with results, proceed to the next unit. If not, it is possible to review that unit again. Eric Curts has provided an outstanding checklists about topics before taking the exam.

Google Certified Educator Level 1

Google Certified Educator Level 2

Are you ready for Google Level 1 and 2 Certification tests?

Once the content has been reviewed, exams are the next step. It took a while before I was ready to take the exams. I had a hard time finding time to complete the Fundamentals training. When I finished the training, I questioned if I knew the material well enough to take the exam. When I did take the test, I would have benefitted from some of the following facts:

• You are given 3 hours to complete the exam.
• The exam consists of multiple-choice questions, drag and drop, and performance-based scenarios.
• $10 exam fee with up to 7 days to take the exam.
• On average, 30% of educators are unsuccessful at passing the 1st time.
• The primary reason people fail is not enough time to complete the exam.
• If you fail, you are allowed to take the exam again in 14 days, and a third time in 60 days.
• Certification is valid for 3 years.

Knowing these facts was reassuring because even in the event of a failure, the exam can be retaken with a much higher likelihood of passing!

Why did I want to become Google Certified?

Now let’s go to the “Why did I… ” part of the certification. Simply put, I wanted to learn more about effectively using Google Apps with students and educators. I also wanted to prove to myself that I could complete the certification. The good news was I did it! I passed both exams and received a digital badge and certification from Google. The badge can be used in your email signature to promote your ability to implement Google tools in the classroom. In conclusion, this process essentially taught me more about Google Apps and implementing technology skills in the classroom so I could do more with my students and help educators.

What I have learned in this process? 

Reflecting back on the journey, I’ve learned that we don’t give ourselves enough credit for what we know. I see this with the teachers I work with on a daily basis and I find myself falling into this mindset as well. Through this certification journey, I have learned so much about Google Apps and how to incorporate them into the classroom. I have discovered so many new ideas regarding how I can use these tools with students and my fellow educators. In completing the Google Certifications, I have proved to myself, my students, and fellow educators that I am a continuous learner. It is very exciting to call myself a Google Level 1 and 2 Certified Educator! In fact, I was so motivated after completing these 2 certifications, that I applied for, and was accepted, as a Google Certified Trainer! It has been quite a journey and one that I hope you will consider embarking on as well!

The LTC can help you!

The Learning Technology Center (LTC) has Google Level 1 and 2 Certification workshops that will help you practice the performance-based scenarios of the certifications and answer any other questions you may have about the process. Check out the LTC website to find a workshop near you.