Implementing Technology: Key Points to Consider
Each summer we make an effort to attend the ISTE conference to explore the "latest and greatest" technology tools that are plunging into the education market, and we never cease to be amazed by all the gadgets, widgets and "one night wonders" that we see being promoted. Occasionally a tool or concept prompts us to say, "Wow, that really fits who we are and the beliefs that we represent - tools and companies that have a direct impact on student achievement in the classroom." However, many times we get frustrated seeing folks investing in technology gadgets that won't go the distance.
An article recently came across my desk that reminded me of this yet again. We have worked with schools all across the region to implement technology and have tried to focus on strategies that work best for each teacher, in each particular classroom, in each environment. While we can visit a school, help teachers to push the right buttons and show an overview of how the tool works, getting down and dirty in the trenches of implementing that technology with proven teaching strategies is where the fun starts! This article from phys.org really iterates this point by stressing that innovative teaching, not technology, has the greatest impact in the classroom.
It is for this reason that simply purchasing technology equipment is not enough for districts to realize a direct impact of technology on teaching and learning; and support and training on implementing these technologies with proven teaching strategies is so critical to successful technology implementations.
Districts must put a concentrated focus on helping teachers implement that technology in a manner that fits their teaching style and incorporates effective teaching strategies, making training an important part of technology purchases.
With each technology, there are some standard procedures and operations that if used by everyone would make learning more consistent for students. These basic training concepts are often taught in a single training once equipment is obtained. However, once that initial training is over, further steps must be taken to support the teacher on implementing the technology within their teaching styles on a daily basis to help kids gain and retain knowledge, save valuable planning time and improve overall results in the classroom.
One of our most popular training scenarios is having one of our educational consultants onsite for the entire day working with individual teachers during their planning period - in their own room, on their technology, with their content. Even though time may be short during a typical planning period, this 1:1 environment is often worth a 3-hour training in a group setting. Administrators and teachers alike have commented on the effectiveness of this ongoing training.
At Engaging Technologies, effective use of technology in the classroom is our mission, our passion, and our goal. It's not important that every teacher get the same tools, but it is important that they know how to use the technologies they are given in a way that makes a positive impact on the classroom. As a company, it is our goal to help them effectively utilize their technology tools to make the biggest impact on student learning. If you are in the Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa area, please don't hesitate to contact us. We'd love to come to your school and spend time with you and/or your staff to see how we can help you successfully implement the tools you have or need in your class. Also, be sure to check out our various training courses, which go above and beyond the basics of, "What happens when I push this button?"
