As we all know, technology continues to play a larger and larger role in the modern classroom. With the rate at which new technology comes across our desks, it is important to make sure your teachers are getting the most out of the tools you provide. Too often classroom technology is only used at a bare minimum, seen more as an obligation rather than an opportunity to elevate a lesson plan. Here are a few ways to get the most out of the technology investments you have made and will make moving forward.
1. Relate back to the teaching. Technology isn’t about changing the teacher, it’s about enhancing the lesson. Look for ways to connect what’s currently going in classrooms with ways technology can support it and teachers will feel more comfortable executing their technology-infused lessons.
2. Work together. Having the champion teachers of the school on-board to any new technology implementation is a key piece to making a technology implementation successful. Their success in technology integration comes from not only knowing the tech and how to teach with it, but them also knowing the students and the unique challenges of the school. They can share their experiences with grade partners and during common planning meeting.
3. Start the new year strong (before the old one ends.) Professional development sessions in August are often overshadowed by beginning-of-the-year logistical issues like room prep, lesson planning, and class assignments. Technology professional development is most effective when teachers have time to practice the technology before moving towards infusing it into their lesson. Consider professional development training during the previous school year that way teachers have time to play, ask questions and take time over the summer to review lessons for the Fall.
4. Have a plan. Successful technology integration has a plan, usually some sort of five-year outlook on technology in the school or district. If your school or district does not have a technology plan, create a committee which includes a mix of school leadership, curriculum heads, teachers, and anyone with a passion for technology. It’s a great way to strategically spend budgets, make thorough decisions and build culture.
5. Engage all school stakeholders including parents. Involving not just teachers but also parents and support staff in technology professional development helps to build understanding of the school’s plans for the technology and how it supports the learning goals of the students. This in turn builds culture. Inviting parents to technology-related events like iPad handouts, or even teacher professional developments is a great way to keep parents in the loop and support technology growth in the school.