Dear Teachers,
Sunscreen and sand between the toes are fading into a distant memory as many of you hang up your flip flops and head back into your classrooms for the new school year. You've had your fun: Now it's time to educate the future leaders of the world!
That said, I'll start this letter by stating this: I love technology.
I spent multiple years designing websites, learned HTML during my MLS program, enjoy a great app that lets me be creative, and am amazed by the way technology has changed the landscape of learning - and everyday life - over the years.
I utilized tech in my classroom for purposes such as research, creating presentations, and even having students record podcasts about poetry they'd written.
And yet, I also believe this:
Technology can be incredibly stressful and overwhelming.
Now, I may get hit by the "Oh no she didn't!" stick by my techy friends, but don't hate on me before reading on!
I am very adept at learning new tools pretty quickly, yet I found myself overwhelmed at times this summer when I logged onto social media and saw tweet after post after picture about all the tech tools and apps I should be using in the classroom.
Learn it! Implement it! Everyone's doing it! YOU HAVE TO DO IT, TOO!
Yes, these tools may excite and engage your students.
Yes, these tools may make learning fun.
Yes, these tools may help students master the objectives.
And yes, these tools WILL overwhelm you if you don't keep them under control.
This new explosion of tech in the classroom, and in the idea that you have to use ALL of the APPS, ALL of the TOOLS, ALL OF THE TIME, will have you asking Why can't I keep up? Am I the only one stuck in the '80s? (If so, don't worry: That was a pretty good decade with really great hair.)
 |
| Not me. I only wished back then that I could have Wall Bangs. |
The key, then, is to answer this question: Which tool will work best for my unique situation?
A little reflection will help you answer this question. Before signing up for every available app or tool out there, consider the following:
- Does this tool work with the technology I currently have? It's easy to get excited about a technology tool, jump in feet first, and then realize you don't have the tech you need to follow through. Some schools offer one-to-one devices; others are lucky to have three working computer stations in the classroom. You can't expect an app that would require every student in the class to log on at the same time - or even in one day - to work if you can barely rotate your students for iReady. However, if you have a laptop cart at your disposal, your options are much wider open. Ask yourself: How often do I have technology available? How often would my students need to use the app to complete the task I want them to complete? What would my rotation look like, and does that fit into my schedule? Will this tool be used at a student's home/outside campus or only on campus, and, if outside of campus, do my students have access to the tools needed to use the technology?
- What is my skill and comfort level with technology? Be honest: If you have difficulty deleting old emails, you may need to start with easy-to-use tools that offer a lot of support and/or have a large availability of tutorials and tips online. On the other hand, if you master technology as quickly as you eat lunch during the work day, you'll likely be able to utilize even the most difficult of tools in your classroom. Ask yourself: What's my comfort level with technology? Am I going to be able to teach my students how to use this technology? What kind of support, both in school and out, is available? Are there webinars or in-person trainings I can take to become more proficient; and, if so, do I have time to add this to my schedule?
- Is this the best tool for my unique situation? Yes, we all want to jump on the party train when it comes around so we can join in on the fun; but just because everyone is doing it does not mean you should (case in point: going streaking through the quad Will Ferrell style). Your situation may be entirely different from others you follow; and many products out there now have ambassadors on social media whose job is to promote that product for various perks. Make sure the train is going to take you and your students to the appropriate destination. Ask yourself: What is one way I can use this tool with a specific lesson or objective I teach? Could this tool be used on a continuing basis for multiple lessons? How does this tool fit with my school's / student's learning objectives?
Technology and its tools can create vibrant learning opportunities in the classroom when they are used correctly, yet they can also become a mountainous source of stress. Don't feel bad if you are overwhelmed with the use of technology in the classroom.
Take a deep breath.
Engage with just one tool at a time.
And reach out for the support of your tech specialists, tech trainers, or other tech-using- educators IRL or online.
Sincerely,
A Library and Technology Specialist Who is Going to Miss Her Naps!
