Posted reflections on Challenging Assumptions About Technology Professional Development

Reflection author Takeaways Date Options
Janetta Garton Technology integration is not just about learning tools but about pedagogy and classroom management. PD needs context and community. Assumptions: Technology isn’t being integrated by teachers because of • Lack of pd • Poor pd • Teacher attitude • Pd must take place outside of classroom Facts • Studies show teachers are getting tech pd What are the real roadblocks? What support system would be better? Outside the classroom pd: conf, virtual worlds, online communities, way things are going; but maybe we need to look back at the classroom, where teachers teach, place of practice is the best to learn how to do the work; putting learning in the best context; teaching is typically an isolated profession, but many professions aren’t like this. Teachers always return to classroom alone, no one-on-one coaching or peer mentors, too late advice after the fact, teachers learn with the kids in the classroom; Online pd good things, but still outward looking, away from classroom, discussing practice is not enough, has to transfer and be put into action Overcoming Obstacles • pd support is just in time in their classroom • look to students as colearners in curriculum and in tech use Constructive classroom attributes • collaborative • actively student centered • choice • democratic: teacher not only source of knowledge • reflective • risk-taking student as an active participant in learning, not something to be acted on; technology helps makes these teaching practices happen. Move from thinking learning tech is complex and secret so as not to make mistake in front of students; can’t ever have all the answers with tech; Be open about learning; move away from teaching and move to enhancing learning process, differentiating instruction; Students can provide just in time support for teachers; teachers can model learning for students. Something we don’t know we can figure it out together. Students need to see teachers figuring things out; students see their contributions valued will contribute more; GenYES • identified as exemplary plan by USDE; used in 1200 schools in USA; in over 40 states; Dennis Harper, director; Video by George Lucas foundation • Students paired one on one with teacher to create lessons collaborate on lessons and how to use technology • Students teach; teachers learn • Preservice teachers often trained by professors who have not been in a K12 classroom • Students perspectives on how to use technology in classroom • Students practice communications skills and teaching skills to help classroom teachers learn new tech skills • Teachers in program enjoy learning from students; teachers like kids; like learning from kids better than from adults; • Students feel they matter at school and have a reason to be there, a part of it; schools transformed by the process of students training their teachers • Program with the most research that shows it works. • Free to use no one owns the idea • Pd for tech can reach into classroom and provide context for learning tech tools to promote student centered classrooms • Both students and teachers benefit
2007-11-15 13:26:00 View
Brian Grenier
2007-10-22 17:12:52 View