I think I will enjoy the Hybrid nature of this course, ability to meet my classmates and still have the convenience of working from home accommodating a busy schedule. I really enjoyed the two videos about Blogger and Wikispaces - I have bookmarked these to use later at our HS. I am keeping a technology notebook and log included will be all the sites, videoes, suggestions I receive from you as well as classmates.
After thoroughly reading the article "Digital Divide Leadership" I would like to comment on two quotes: the authors recommend moving from automating Admin practices to transforming teaching and learning. I feel this is the true role of a person with the title " Instructional Technologist". They will be critical in assisting the teacher and students to be comfortable in this new environment. After working with the teacher, I cimagine students will also take initiative and move forward with technology with challenging lessons. I would like to think that the use of technology will foster more critical thinking and challenge our students to be life long learners!
Item 2: Page 11- "Create new professional development initiatives".
I am a Tech Coordinator at Western Wayne School District. I work closely with teachers and our two Instructional Technology staff members to incorporate technology into any/all classrooms.
Professional Development is the key to having your teachers buy into technology. Start slow at first, our school offers " Java Mornings" breakfast, coffee provided for an hour we discuss how to segments and teachers share success stories with peers. The buzz started around our HS in October and never stopped.
Day two of this 2008-09 school year the teachers jumped on laptops, science projects, math lessons, Promethean Boards and began the year with heavy technology assisted lessons. This was a year long process of professional development in our HS that Administrators sent a directive to all teachers they WOULD go thru some sort of PD for the year. in school, at Wilkes or after school was offered.
This year any teacher (as not part of the CFF grant ) that did receive a Promethean Board and Projector in their room ( Mostly MS and Elementary Schools I was able to purchase 14 set ups from my budget) had to commit to 15 hours of Promethean Training or I would not recommend a board be placed in their room.
When teachers come to my department requesting the technology and thinking outside the box I am personally excited! It is all about the students and creating strong learners!!
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1 comment:
Sue,
I enjoyed reading your reflection. I too enjoy working on the course work at home yet we are still connected with the professor and classmates. I can't wait to learn more about CFF throughout the semester. Wednesday night was the first time I heard about the program. I think is amazing the amount of technology Western Wayne has within the school district. More school districts in the area need to move in that direction.
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