What is the best way to get others at your schools to use more technology in their teaching and the students' learning? Well, If I knew the answer to that my job would be a lot easier. There are so many different ways to try to get teachers into using technology. One of them is throwing different ideas at them until you see that little gleam in their eye and know you have found something they are interested in. That can be time consuming and some what tedious though, and you may lose your sanity before that happens.
Another way is to find out what kind of projects the teachers are already doing in the classroom and try to show them how the could use technology to help create those projects. More often then not, teachers find that the technology offers something to the students projects that they didn't have before. Then they are usually hooked on something new that they didn't use before. That is one of the best ways I have found.
However, the absolute best way to try and spread the joy technological bliss for me is by pure example. I try to incorporate technology in everything I do throughout the day. If I'm in a meeting I'm using my laptop to take notes, and if it's really important I'm using garageband to record it. If someone has a question that needs answered I whip out my laptop and head to google and other sources. If someone tells me about an event or date I pull out my iPhone and put it in my calendar. If I'm doing a PD I am using the LCD projector to project whatever creation I have made using a new form of software or website. I have found that by doing things like this teachers are often curious and ask me how to do this or that. Then the conversation is opened up to discuss how they could implement different technology into their curriculum for the students.
Totally agree. Best ways to get teachers into technology are relationships with the classroom teacher and good modeling.
ReplyDeleteBuilding authentic relationships with teachers to suggest technology for their existing curriculum works because it supports the position that the classroom teacher is expert of their own class. (ie: The content their teaching, the student's background knowledge, interpersonal relationships, etc.)
Additionally, modeling shows off cool toys in a practical application that totally piques interest.
Good post!
-Lindsay
I also agree that leading by example is effective. Showing that you practice what you preach is surely very encouraging to your colleagues and lets them know that it's not all that hard to use technology all of the time, that they actually do it. I'm sure using your phone as a mini computer helps them relate because everyone has a phone and most people have some sort of smart phone. I am also sure that the way you model technology use displays your positive and approachable attitude, I bet your teachers feel comfortable watching you and asking you questions because you don't have that "I am so cool I can do this and you can't" air that some people may have. I've seen people show what they can do with their phone or computer and then not offer to teach others how to do it. It's really important, especially with teachers who are apprehensive about using technology, to show how accessible and easy it can be. I am sure your strategy is successful.
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