Tuesday, December 9, 2008

Shifting Expectations

Here's the Challenge

Supported by a district requirement for technology staff development as a component of the certificate renewal process, District Instructional Technologists have offered a variety of workshops throughout the years. As we review the research and explore new training options, our focus is shifting. Yes, we are here to teach workshops; but we are also here to provide follow-up support to help teachers implement new strategies and utilize new tools.

Research shows that simply participating in 1 hour training sessions has little effect on classroom instruction. No one should be surprised by this.

As we fine tune our department structure to include new training options, we must also herald our willingness to assist teachers on individual technology based projects. Hopefully teachers will hear, "We are here to support you" and be willing to invest time and energy putting innovative approaches into practice.

Let's form a real partnership to take advantage of technology resources and work together to provide a 21st Century education for our 21st Century learners. Let's move from seat time to earn the required credits to truly implementing strategies identified as best practices.

Call on us. The Department of Technology is here to help you soar to new heights and bravely travel into new territory.

Be brave. Think and act outside the box.


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