Google Teacher Academy vs. Apple Distinguished Educator Program [Infographic]

With so many edtech professional development opportunities available for innovative educators, it can be hard to distinguish which one is right for you, the qualifications necessary, and how to apply.

This infographic compares two of the most highly competitive and prestigious programs for teachers who are passionate about using technology in the classroom: the Google Teacher Academy and the Apple Distinguished Educator Program.

What is the Google Teacher Academy?

“The Google Teacher Academy (GTA) is a free professional development experience designed to help primary and secondary educators from around the globe get the most from innovative technologies. Each GTA is an intensive, two-day event during which participants get hands-on experience with Google tools, learn about innovative instructional strategies, receive resources to share with colleagues, and immerse themselves in a supportive community of educators making impact.” –Google Teacher Academy Website

What do you learn?

Educators will get experience with Google tools, learn about innovative instructional strategies, receive resources to share with colleagues, and immerse themselves in a supportive community of educators making impact. Once you have completed the training, you become a Google Certified Teacher (GCT) and join an online network of other GCT’s to collaborate and share ideas.

How do you apply?

Teachers submit applications to be considered to participate in the Google Teaching Academy. The application includes a questionnaire, short answer questions, and a video. Participants are selected based on professional experience, passion for teaching and learning, and their successful use of technology in school settings. Only approximately 50 innovative educators world-wide are selected to attend each academy.

Who can apply?

Applicants range from curriculum specialists, classroom teachers, technology advocates, professional trainers, to librarians and administrators who use google education tools to advance learning.

“My biggest takeaway wasn’t a new tool or trick, though we learned great ones, but it was the reminder of what’s possible with shared energy – that creative spark we hope to capture and recreate for our students.” – Gretel Patch, Google Certified Teacher, Nepal 2013, Google Teacher Academy Website.

What is the Apple Distinguished Educator Program?

“Apple Distinguished Educators (ADEs) are part of a global community of education leaders recognized for doing amazing things with Apple technology in and out of the classroom. They explore new ideas, seek new paths, and embrace new opportunities. That includes working with each other — and with Apple — to bring the freshest, most innovative ideas to students everywhere.” –Apple Distinguished Teacher Website

What do you learn?

Educators gather yearly at Apple Distinguished Educators institutes around the world to collaborate on solutions for global education challenges. Educators advise Apple, policy makers, and their fellow ADE’s on how they integrate Apple technology into learning environments. ADE’s get the opportunity to author original content about their work, and advocate the use of Apple products to help engage students in new ways. They become Apple Ambassadors of Innovation, and get to participate and present at education events around the world.

How do you apply?

Educators from countries who participate in the Apple Distinguished Educators program can sign up to be notified when the application period begins in their country. Applicants are then asked to complete an online application and submit a two minute video. Currently there are approximately 2,000 ADE’s worldwide and the selection process is highly competitive.

Who can apply?

Any educator who is passionate about innovative teaching and integrate Apple technology into their learning environment in a meaningful way that engages students, influences other educators, and helps transform teaching and learning.

“In his role as Director of Assistive Technology, Mark works with educators at the Anne Carlsen Center in North Dakota to find appropriate tools that make curriculum accessible to all learners. Mark uses Apple technology to open up a world of opportunities for students with diverse learning needs and is seeing incredible gains with students on the Autism spectrum.” – Mark Coppin, Class of 2009, Apple Distinguished Teacher Website

This infographic originally appeared here.