Being the technology person at my school (because no one else wanted to do this...surprise surprise) I find it very disturbing how many teachers (who have had atleast 10 years of using technology for grading purposes) want you to hold their hands. No matter how many hand outs or professional development is given these teachers still rely upon others to set up their elmos, in-focus machines, and help with grades. This disturbs me because I wonder how those same teachers are helping students be literate in the area of technology.
This week's class inspired me to go to the principal and ask if I could do more professional development for helping teachers integrate technology in their instruction with programs such as Wordle, Comic Life, and blogging...so wish me luck! I am really excited to learn more each week if my principal supports this idea!
From my educational administration program one of the key components that was strongly emphasized was ensuring that students are techonologically literate. Yet, schools are not being equipped or funded with the tools necessary to provide these opportunities for students. It's really interesting to see that when I was a special education teacher I had a SMART board to use and money to spend on technology with my students. Other sped teachers had them as well, but they were tucked in a corner collecting dust. But as a general education teacher, I have a good old fashioned blackboard (not even a wipe board). Don't get me wrong I have tools such as the elmo and in focus machine, but the SMART boards are awesome and the kids are so motivated when you are able to utilize them!
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That is so great that you are talking to your principal about doing some professional development! I hope that goes well. I've never considered myself very technologically savvy, but in one of my student teaching placements, I helped my teacher learn how to use cut and paste in Microsoft Word, among many other features. Technology is something that I take for granted and I get a little nervous for the future when I might be "that teacher" that doesn't know basic computer skills. Eek.
ReplyDeleteGreat post! Interesting in terms of we think we are always gaining in terms of teachers using technology for instruction with students. Unfortunately, after reading a post such as this - the realization is that we really haven't made much headway. Teachers are over-worked and under-paid, but keeping up with essential teaching/learning tools is a necessity! I applaud your efforts, so keep us posted.
ReplyDeleteOne other point - I think in some districts "the technology person" means just the person to keep it up and going, There is no time for them to do what you are initiating and that is really working with teachers one-on-one to help develop some of their skills and knowledge. It shouldn't be the case - but it is what happens.