Assignment #4 Connectedness

I think in terms of 1:1 initiatives and BYOD initiatives we need to treat it like anything else implemented in education. The success of these programs is not going to be determined by merely possessing these pieces of technology, but instead the extent to which they are implemented. We are seeing this in education with similar programs, like PBIS where some schools really struggle to utilize PBIS as a program, but others seem like magical places with little to no discipline issues. Technology initiatives are no different. Once the initiatives are put in place, the focus needs to shift over to development and implementation.

Professional development will partially fall on the shoulders of the school district, but a vast majority of development will need to be implemented by the building principals. I think it is also important to mention that as buildings are working on teaching staff how these devices can be used in the classroom, it is just as important for staff to understand how these devices can be utilized within a subject area. As a leader I plan to utilize PLCs as a space where ideas about how to use these devices can be shared. Ideas can then be presented to the whole staff followed by more reflection time to see if there are common techniques that can be used in multiple subject areas.

As a leader I think I need to become much more versed in the common core state standards, so that I can better help teachers in the different ways they can incorporate technology in their classroom. I think I can also be up to date and model current tech tools so that staff can see the use and hopefully apply that use to their classroom. Finally, I need to ensure that my strategies for teaching adults are sound. I don’t think I’ll have very much success if I teach staff members like I teach my current students. However, if I take into account how most adults learn, I will not only be more effective with my teaching but there’s a better chance that I’ll spark a few ideas.