KEYS TO A SUCCESSFUL PROJECT Top 4 Challenges and Lessons Learned from Research Karen Andrews Senior Manager, Research and Planning

Challenges from… Applied Research Projects in Alberta Videoconferencing Research Emerge: One-to-one Laptop Learning AISI (Technology and Learning) + SuperNet Snapshot

What is the top challenge identified in the implementation of learning technology initiatives? Hint: NOT time, resources or the technology! Stakeholder Technology Branch 2 min table talk

Maintain lines of communication ***Plan for staff turnover *** Clearly communicating the expectations, roles and responsibilities of each members (project leads, teachers, administrators, school and board technical staff, etc). Clearly outline the communication strategy (procedures for sending/receiving information). AE Communications. Instill the power of a Community of Practice (COP).  Sharing of information/strategies.  Sharing of experiences both successes and challenges is how we learn from each other. **Communications Toolkit

Build capacity for how to use technology to support innovative learning experiences Moving From… An expensive chalk board Use it to type up the good copy Only difference is a camera in the room Worksheets with buttons Well-used technology in the classroom leads to teachers encouraging and guiding students more than instructing. – Seymour Papert

Ongoing focus on building instructional practice in the design of rich authentic learning experiences Educators Proficiency: Need to look at professional development plans related to how to integrate technology into teaching. What is needed to transform teaching and support critical thinking skills for students?

Technology Construction Tools. Authenticity Real-World Artificial Productivity Tools Expression/ Visualization Complexity Basic Skills Instruction Constructivist Didactic Coaching High Order Thinking eCommunications Video/Audio/Data Online Environments Technology in Schools: A Range of Use Online Research Problem Solving w/ Data Sets, Probes, etc. Simulations Online Courses Integrated Learning System Drill & Practice

Stakeholder Technology Branch

Professional Learning Continuum

Technology does catalyze new teaching methods and to change teaching and learning. These new teaching methods have a positive impact on student engagement and learning. Technology projects increased the focus on meta-cognition, where new technology prompted teachers to look at how students learn and not just what they learn. Student learning moved from lecture to small group, inquiry and one-on-one training, which proved successful in all projects. Professional development was embedded in daily classroom activities, as opposed to only providing one-time professional development or technology workshops. Stakeholder Technology Branch Research Sound Bites

Tracking, measuring, analyzing How do we know if it’s working? How do we measure impact? Will we have anything to say at the end? #3 Evaluation and Assessment

Provincial Goals Local Goals Classroom Goals Student engagement and success Retention, completion, attendance, engagement Program goals, interventions, outcomes Local measures Assessment of student impact Classroom measures Research and Evaluation Model Alberta Education Research School/ Board Research

Providing flexible technical environments, to support innovative teaching and learning, that are also secure and supported. Locked down systems –not allowing student- owned devices Access at home (take home laptops) Access anywhere, anytime (24/7) #4 IT Procedures and Access

14 Essential Conditions Shared Vision Equitable Access Skilled Personnel Professional Development Technical Assistance Content Standards and Curriculum Resources Student-Centered Teaching Assessment and Accountability Community Support Support Policies External Conditions

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