Technology
In order to successfully facilitate an individualized technology professional development program, we will need tools that will allow us to work collaboratively with ease within limited time frames. Additionally, we will need tools that can be accessed both at home and school allowing teachers valuable time to explore the technology that they are expected to use in their classrooms.
Authentic, real-world experiences permitted only through these now available tools will allow all teachers to actually apply what they learn about technology integration. Since lack of time to explore and learn technology coupled with limited access to technology is a major concern and area of frustration among teachers, being able to have flexible any time use of technology is essential. This will give teachers the opportunity to investigate the affordances and constraints of new tools that will enhance student learning that they may not otherwise have time or motivation to pursue.
Authentic, real-world experiences permitted only through these now available tools will allow all teachers to actually apply what they learn about technology integration. Since lack of time to explore and learn technology coupled with limited access to technology is a major concern and area of frustration among teachers, being able to have flexible any time use of technology is essential. This will give teachers the opportunity to investigate the affordances and constraints of new tools that will enhance student learning that they may not otherwise have time or motivation to pursue.
Laptops for Teachers
I propose purchasing laptops to replace desktop computers in classrooms for all teachers. These teacher laptops would coincide with the laptop models that would in the future replace old student mobile lab carts and/or purchase for more student mobile lab laptops so that teachers are familiar with the tools that their students are expected to use. These laptops would be available for use at home and school for teaching purposes.
iPad Minis for K-3 Teachers
I also propose that all Kindergarten through third grade teachers additionally receive iPad Minis because their students are expected to use them in their classroom. These iPad Minis would also be available for use at home and school use for teaching purposes. Research echoes over and over that teachers need to feel comfortable and confident with using technology in the classroom or "...they are less inclined to incorporate it into their plans" (Jones, 2001, p. 35).
Full Time Technology Integration Specialist
Though not what one would label as 'traditional' technology, a technology integration specialist would serve as an essential tool in putting this proposal into practice. Within our current context, I am the part time (in addition to full time teaching responsibilities) technology integration specialist. This program could be implemented to some extent without a full time technology integration specialist but in order for it to reach its full potential there will need to be someone with a flexible schedule available to co-teach, model and troubleshoot during school hours with teachers and students.
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"I realized that we needed to motivate new teachers to see themselves as leaders who would bring the power of technology to schools because if we only prepare teachers for the current infrastructure, we are going to underprepare an entire generation of educators for the coming reality of ubiquitous connectedness."
Photos used under Creative Commons from ZERGE_VIOLATOR, closari, chakk1matti