Just what does an ITRT do? Phyllis Gardner, Instructional Specialist Technology Resources
ITRT? ITIS? ITS? Instructional Technology Resource Teacher
Ways they can help teachers Have a teaching foundation Model technology usage Assist the teacher with productivity Develop a rich library of curriculum-driven technology-enhanced resources and materials for a given subject area
Ways they can help teachers Provide direct support to the teacher by coaching or modeling technology tools and software Consult and collaborate with teachers, working with students when needed for the purpose of modeling or demonstrating a lesson in the classroom Advises and assist teachers to determine what, when, where, and how to integrate technology into a lesson
Ways they can help your school Collaborate on technology use with teachers or administrators Coordinate the selection of any school software or even hardware Facilitate any school-wide technology effort Design and implement technology staff developments
Ways they can help your school Help your school develop and implement short- term and long-term technology goals Act as a liaison between the school and the district concerning technology Help with communication to parents and via the internet by assisting with school web pages and/or newsletters or calendars
Integration specialists So.. the key is for the ITRT to find what the teachers/students need and to gently nudge integration in that direction: o Full blown step-by-step hold my hand training o Or a simple as a suggestion of a "knock-your-socks off" website
So they can… Do model lessons for a full class Do small group instruction with students or teachers Do after-school mini- workshops Collaborate right in the classroom as a teaching partner
And they can… develop and help teachers implement cool technology projects get resources, ideas, and great tips for a particular teacher or team of teachers teach the teachers how to use all this cool stuff make a teacher's day by fixing/showing/helping/supporting
So that means they also do…. “door to door” sales for both technophobes and technomaniacs how-to workshops and staff developments one-to-one training when needed for “digital immigrants” modeling of new technologies as often as needed
Time Management 70% - working with teachers/students 15% - meeting with/supporting administrators 10% - communicating/creating/planning 4% - minor troubleshooting 1% - maintaining paperwork
Accountability Ask to see their weekly logs Be mindful of their work schedules Find opportunities where they can assist staff Be a technology supporter yourself
Final Thoughts?