Here are three questions from a post at Call for Data.
What are the 21st century skills we want our teachers to model?
This is a difficult question for me to answer. I could quote ISTE standards for technology for teachers and students. I wonder if I should answer the question in a different way though. What are the skills that I have and want to see my students emulate?
Computer literacy is important. I define my level of computer literacy is the ability to understand computers well enough to be able to continue learning about them with ease. Understanding how types of computer applications operate so that moving from one specific application to another is not difficult. Understanding that computer applications often come with searchable help documentation and knowing what to search for when problems arise.
Problem solving with technology is related to literacy. I have conceptual understanding of a wide range of technologies. When I have a problem, I can think of technologies that I can apply as a remedy. I am also capable of pursuing topics further when I need to increase my understanding in order to reach my goals.
How can we provide consistent and relevant training to 200 teachers?
There are a multitude of was to provide training. Many of these methods are proven to be consistent and relevant to classroom teachers. I have taken part in train-the-trainer sessions, I then provide training to additional staff members. Peer coaching is another important method of support. I have coached and collaborated with my colleagues on a number of projects that involve technology. I can see how teachers have learned from the experiences and continue to grow with each new project we collaborate on.
Providing professional development sessions helps, but the mistake of stopping at one session on a topic is too often the norm. Sessions on specific topics should be offered year to year to update and refresh staff.
The advent of online learning can provide training opportunities with a just-in-time model. Indeed, my own graduate work is entirely online.
Will adequate resources encourage teachers to integrate technology into their curriculum?
No, adequate resources, as in technology tools, will not encourage the integration of technology into classrooms. If however, resources includes the support and training like those mentioned above, then perhaps the integration will come. I think that first and above all, teachers need to learn why they should work to integrate technology. I use tech in many different parts of my life-style. Teachers that aren’t as literate and accepting as I am need to see the proof in the pudding. This justification is something that I am currently struggling to articulate.
