Hello again, fans!
I have returned to my blog because I am tackling another course for my master's degree. This one is the Technology Integrator's Toolbox (EDU 642 for those keeping score). So, it's all about technology. You know how I feel about technology. If you don't you should probably refer back to the title of this blog. No, really . . . go look at the title.
Today's blog post comes to us in the form of the following questions:
"What are your ideas of what a technology integration specialist is as you previously learned in other SNHU courses? Also, discuss today’s students and teachers as related to their use of technology in and out of the classroom."
I can do that. Here we go.
So, the only class I've had which seems relevant was my Learning Through Technology course (the one that got me to start this blog in the first place). That course put me on the road to understanding how technology can be used effectively in the classroom. When I say effectively, this is really the idea that I have for a tech integrator. Anyone can use technology, but I think an integrator can help teachers use it effectively. By combining the ideas in the classroom with ideas from the technological world, you can build effective lessons to inspire your students to achieve.
One of the things I've been saying for a while now was reflected in the video Rethinking Learning: The 21st Century Learner (MacArthur Foundation, 2010). "I don't think any kid is born digitally native," is said around 1:12 in the video, which I wholeheartedly agree with. We are so buried under the idea that our students are holding powerful computers in their hands so they must be fully versed in technology. They are not. I have had so many conversations with students where I ask for someone to perform a task on their phone and I get blank looks and confusion. Students haven't been taught how to use their phones. They only thing they've decided to learn are the popular and fun apps like Twitter, Snapchat, Vine, etc. They haven't delved into the powerful tool they have at their disposal. Nor has anyone given them a lesson in how to do that. Parents are presently unequipped to be their teachers in this area. They know just as little and are often more afraid to try new things. The technology integrator must be able to help teachers step into this role. We can introduce things that will help both the teacher and the student, all the while allowing for the teacher to take the lead and be the guide for the technology.
So there you have it, my view of what I'm trying to become. Or technically already am, just without the degree to add to my name. :-/
References:
MacArthur Foundation, (2010)., Rethinking Learning: The 21st Century Learner. Retrieved from: https://www.youtube.com/watch?NR=1&feature=endscreen&v=c0xa98cy-Rw
Hi Scotty,
ReplyDeleteYou are absolutely right when you say that anyone can use technology. A technology integration specialist helps support teachers in using the best practices through different forms of technology and shows them how to implement it. I have first hand experience with this as a teacher. I know how to use all kinds of technology but wasn't sure how to get my students on board and implement it in my class. We got a new tech specialist this year and he has been awesome. He has supported me in getting students registered for free programs, collaborated with me on how to integrate different technology ideas into my lesson plans, modeled and co-taught lessons with me. Now, I just jump right in and do it on my own. I've also learned a lot about new programs and ideas that I can use that I was not familiar with (like Edmodo). Anyhow, tech integration specialists have a lot of value in the school system and every school should have one on hand to support teachers and students.
Love your perspective. You are balanced and realistic...acknowledging that just because students have technology it doesn't mean they know how to use it effectively. And thanks for sharing the video...that is a great resource!
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