Concerns and hopes regarding technology

I have a few concerns regarding implementing and integrating technology in the classroom.
· Proper training
· Teaching the technology skill to accommodate different styles and learning levels
· Amount of money it takes to get what you want

To overcome the fears I have I will finish my masters degree and continue to attend staff develop classes offered through my district in the area of technology. I will encourage and support my colleagues in developing their skills in technology. Together we apply what we know in the classroom to enhance student learning. The first step would be to decide what areas we need technological support to help students process the information and develop higher level thinking skills. We can then find the hardware and software that will be most beneficial to the students. Once we have the equipment and use it to assist in teaching, we can assess its effect on student learning. Our principal supports the use of technology in the classroom and is eager to support the teachers that want to enhance learning by using technology. We purchased 8 promethean boards last year and most teachers use them to in various subjects. The students are motivated to learn and are successful in meeting the objectives. But, if the principal is not able to find additional funds, sometimes local businesses will support school purchases or there are a variety of grants that you can apply for. I have never applied for a grant, so that would be a challenge for me.


My best hopes regarding technology implementation and integration are:
· Staff support and collaboration
· Increased student responses to learning
· Be eager to learn and apply new technologies


There are some teachers that have a better relationship with computers than others. Teachers enjoy sharing what they know about technology and its importance in the classroom. If you have technology (computers, cameras, projectors, or promethean boards, use it, a lot. Students can also use the computer to become familiar with different cultures. They can learn more about different countries and email students that live in the country they want to learn more about. I remember when we my teachers wished they could have pen pals for us but it was a challenge to contact schools around the world. It is much easier now and very good for the students to see and talk to people their age that live somewhere else. The skills I have learned in this class has given me the confidence that I need to succeed as a librarian. But there are a lot of students that know more than I do about the trends in technology. It is great to see the students teach the teacher and other students how to use something, like an Ipod. Students can then have a sense of responsibility in their own learning as well as their peers. The teacher can then find a way to use it in the class.