Technology Vision:
When used properly, technology can be a great tool to use with students. Throughout my journey, I have seen technology inspire students to think beyond the rubric and spike their curiosities. As educational leaders become more comfortable implementing technology, students will be able to increase their critical thinking skills. It is my vision to have students use technology to research topics they are interested in, collaborate with peers who have the same passions, and create meaningful products that reflect their learning.
Students can not benefit from this type of environment unless the teachers are comfortable using technology. Schools can ensure that teachers are comfortable implementing technology by acquiring new resources, such as, a technology coach and a list of hardware and software that teachers can use. The norm for professional development is usually sporadic. The instructor of professional development is usually in the local school during the presentation and may come back seasonally or not at all. In order for this to be meaningful to teachers, it must be ongoing and it must be with someone they have a relationship with. Ideally, each school will have a coach that teachers can go to for advice or someone who can assist them in executing projects they have envisioned.
In addition to using technology coaches, schools and teachers could also benefit from collaborating with other schools. With the additions of web quests, Edmodo, and other web 2.0 tools, there is no reason teachers shouldn't be working together to lighten each others load. This would encourage students from different backgrounds to work together and would be a meaningful experience for teachers. In conclusion, I believe that technology should connect students and educators in order to enhance everyone's school experience.
Students can not benefit from this type of environment unless the teachers are comfortable using technology. Schools can ensure that teachers are comfortable implementing technology by acquiring new resources, such as, a technology coach and a list of hardware and software that teachers can use. The norm for professional development is usually sporadic. The instructor of professional development is usually in the local school during the presentation and may come back seasonally or not at all. In order for this to be meaningful to teachers, it must be ongoing and it must be with someone they have a relationship with. Ideally, each school will have a coach that teachers can go to for advice or someone who can assist them in executing projects they have envisioned.
In addition to using technology coaches, schools and teachers could also benefit from collaborating with other schools. With the additions of web quests, Edmodo, and other web 2.0 tools, there is no reason teachers shouldn't be working together to lighten each others load. This would encourage students from different backgrounds to work together and would be a meaningful experience for teachers. In conclusion, I believe that technology should connect students and educators in order to enhance everyone's school experience.