Effective Strategies for Professional Development in Technology Integration Carol O. Free AETE 731

Technology Integration  Empowers students to think critically  Promotes problem-based learning  Encourages collaboration  Requires new approaches to professional development activities

 Habits  Promote imitation of existing processes  Create comfort zones  Resist new methods of instruction  Resist new challenge of loss of control  Resist due to fear or intimidation Barriers to Effective Implementation

 Typical Technology Training  Simple  One or two-day workshops  Focused on software  Time  Substantial time required  Evolves over time

Barriers to Effective Implementation  Limited Access to Resources  Insufficient hardware  Dissatisfaction can develop  Technology relegated to labs  Promotes apathy and frustration

Strategies for Effective Implementation  Modification of Habits  Takes time, patience & encouragement  Analysis of Development Activities  Real, meaningful, and on-going  Should not require technical expertise  Focused on modifying instructional techniques  To support inquiry  To become a facilitator and fellow problem solver  To assist students in integrating diverse experiences

Strategies for Effective Implementation  Professional Collaboration  Critical reflection  Promotes further change  Analysis of instructional practices  On-going dialogue with colleagues  Leverage Experience of Stake Holders  Involves everyone affiliated with the school  Recognizes value of local businesses

Strategies for Effective Implementation  Mentoring  Motivated teacher-leaders  Begins immediately after training  Modeling best practices  Support and encouragement  Fosters close relationships  Encourages duplication

Strategies for Effective Implementation  Administrative  Lead by example  Provision of resources  Incorporated into staff evaluation  Establish flexible schedules  Encourage peer coaching  Allow visits among teachers  Plan meetings to evaluate technology

Technology Integration  Requires comprehensive effort  Bottom line: Impact on student learning  Powerful tool to support collaborative learning environments  Catalyst for change  Mandated in educational standards

Effective Technology Integration is.... A Journey, not a Destination!! Have a GREAT trip!!