We are lucky to have a Principal who values technology training. Today, I'll be in a MAC class in our new lab learning more about MACs and how to use them in elementary applications. The trainer is from Kennesaw State. The school covered half the expense, and I paid the other half of $50.
We also have many teachers and a media specialists who are tech. savy and teach classes frequently. The last one I remember was a "how to maximize thin clients in your classroom" for PLU credits. A third grade teacher taught us how to upload students' work to Google docs and Zoho docs.
As with any organization, be it in the public or private sector, you will always have early, mid, and late adapters when it comes to learning technologies. Many of our teachers embrace new technologies and share with others in their grade levels. Our late adapters are helped along by early adapters.
We also have "quickie" tech. sessions at faculty meetings with our media specialist demonstrating how to use document and flip cameras. She's forever forwarding valuable web-sites to teachers as well.
Overall, I would say tech. training is a collaborative effort at our school with the leader being the Principal. She sets the tone and lets all of us know that she expects us to become efficient with our Promethean boards and other tools. I can't wait to demonstrate applications for blogging, wikis, and podcasts myself. As always, there's a learning curve with new technologies, but the rewards are priceless.
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It's great that you have a principal that not only embraces technology but that affords her teachers opportunities to learn different technology. I'm assuming that she provided you with a substitute teacher in order to take the course.
ReplyDeleteOn the topic of "late adaptors," in a tech training class one time, I was seated next to a "late adaptor." It was difficult because she didn't want to be bothered with learning a new skill, but she DID want credit for the course. Since we were required to work with partners, it was a tough class for me. I was not at the top of the class by any means, so I needed to give all of my attention to the instruction. An instructor who is able to meet all of the needs of the class members is rare.
It sounds like there is a positive attitude about technology in your school. You are right, I believe the one to get everyone on board & understand how important technology is, is the principal.
ReplyDeleteI like the fact the media specialist is given time during faculty meetings to demonstrate/introduce technology.
At my school, we have an IT person in the building. He is the one who has been teaching technology classes for PLU's. I like the idea of teachers sharing what they know with other teachers. All to many times, we have good intentions of sharing our knowledge, but can't seem to find the time. I think it is admirable how your school is with technology.I bet with this attitude your "late" adapters will be a thing of the past.
I am curious what types of emails the media specialist sends out to teachers. Are they telling about new technology (re: articles)or telling how to use new technology.
Wow; it seems like you're in an idea situation, technology-wise. It's so great that your principal embraces technology and encourages everyone else in the school to do the same. Enthusiasm or resistance to new ideas can be very much a trickle-down effect from the leaders of the school, and in supporting the use of technology and the needed training (the brief time given to the media specialist in faculty meetings is a great way to inspire teachers to want to learn more). This encourages those who are early adopters to share what they've learned with those who take a little longer, instead of being reluctant because they're unsure that doing so will pay off due to lack of support.
ReplyDeleteI love hearing about your school! It seems to be a place where technology is really enjoyed throughout the educational process. When a leader embraces an idea it really sets the tone for the whole school.
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