After analyzing my campus data for the last three years, I recognized a trend that could possibly be a concern in the area of Educator Preparation and Development. Because of the campus decline in the key area total, I thought it would be beneficial to take a closer look at this area and begin dialogue on its description, trends, progress, and recommendations.
Description
In order to effectively integrate technology in our schools, teachers and administrators must be well prepared for this important challenge. Teachers must effectively facilitate 21st century learning in technology with 21st century learners. This could very well be the catalyst that moves us from traditional schools to education in a global economy.
Trends
In 2007-2008 state educators were primarily in the Developing Tech (74.2%) classification and close to 20% in the Advanced Tech. Developing Tech is characterized as using technology for administrative tasks and classroom management. There is use of online resources with 40% of educators meeting SBEC standards. The technology budget allocates 6-24% for professional development.
Progress
Progress appears to be moving forward, at least from personal experience. I started at my campus 17 years ago when we were using floppy disks and MacIntosh computers. Today, there are 4 desktops per classroom, two computer labs, and even a small studio for televising morning announcements over closed circuit TVs. A classroom set of laptops is also available for checkout. Professional development is available and sometimes required for many new technologies, however, there is lack of time to practice and internalize new learning. Also, preparation for state mandated testing remains a barrier to exploring new instructional methodologies that could enhance student learning.
Recommendations
Distrcts will need to work with campuses to creatively find time to allow for teacher professional development and practice as innovations emerge. Teacher preparation programs must prepare teachers for developing students with 21st century technology skills. Technology administrators must seek to improve professional development models that will make optimum use of the time allocated. Dialogue among administrative teams could begin to brainstorm solutions to the technological barriers. Finally, all educators need to become more actively involved in the political process, in order to focus all stakeholders on a common goal of improved educator preparation.
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Your observations of your campus are very much in line with my campus, except in the area of availability/ratio of computers to students where most of the classrooms still do not have workstations in them, and if they do, the computers are old and much of the software is outdated. Nonetheless, my campus fell in the "developing" range as well. I agree with your recommendations. If we are to teach at a 21st century level, we need to have the resources and training to make it happen. I know the desire is there; now if we can combine it with the planning and commitment, we could move to the "advanced" level and join the 19.9% who are already there. It would appear we need to make great strides to reach the coveted "target" level, and though it may seem in the distant future, we must believe it is obtainable.
ReplyDeleteGood job Sheryl! I like how you used the pictures. They don't distract the reader at all and they are totally related to the presentation. I know that you will assist your campus leaders to get back to Advanced Tech. Let me know how that goes.
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