The faculty at my mentor’s school has taken a giant leap in their technology skills over the last two years. Over that period of time, every classroom in the school has been equipped with a Promethean Activboard and projector. While some teachers are still more advanced in their technology skills than others, the new technology in every classroom pretty much forced the faculty to advance in their technology skills. The training approach that the school took in this situation was to send two teachers to extensive training on the use of the Activboards, and then have them redeliver information to the faculty. This decision was made primarily due to funding or lack thereof, one of the major problems of technology training. Another problem or barrier that exists in technology training is that it does not take priority over the latest “program” that the system is promoting. So, schools have to get creative and motivated within their building to make the training occur and on-going.
The first item on my “Do” list if it were my responsibility to provide technology training would be to be proactive in offering training. I see this as one of my main responsibilities and priorities as a media specialist. Also on my “Do” list would be to offer technology training in a variety of formats. (such as on-line, small group, large group, and training aid type materials) Just like students, teachers are not all the same in their learning styles and preferences, so flexibility of instruction is important. It is also important to offer training during a variety of times as well. (during planning time, before or after school periodically, or by sign up) Also included on my “Do” list would be to provide follow-up support to the training. This is a vital piece to technology training that is often missed, but is often the determining factor in the continued use and success of technology.
The sole item on my “Don’t” list would be making training mandatory. Instead, I would focus on communicating with staff to see what technology is needed and desired, spreading the word about what trainings are available, and publicizing the success of teachers applying the technology in their classrooms.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
2 comments:
I like your suggestions about offering incentives and follow-up. These are critically needed for these technology sessions. The follow up is especially important. Even a handout with step by step instructions would have helped. Having a list of different technology classes to choose from and at different times of the year is also very necessary. I realize that schools are much more involved in technology these days and that the teachers need to be as well, and that is why these training periods are so important. I believe that most teachers would be willing to go to these trainings if they were given more choices and more freedom to choose.
I like your idea about not making technology training mandatory. Oftentimes, teachers resent and at times are reluctant to use technology that is forced on them. I think the best way to encourage technology to be used is by word of mouth about the positive lessons and excitement that is created when teachers and students find success using new things that learn. The school you are visiting sounds great. We have one Promethean Activboard for the entire school to share. We did just this year get a cart with a number of small little handheld boards to be used by students in the class. These tie into a laptop and projector on the cart. I have yet to try this but hope to get the opportunity in the future.
Post a Comment