During this class we are learning about the importance of technology in the classroom. This definitely has been a learning journey for me! I no longer consider myself computer illiterate, nor do I feel that I know enough to teach my fellow colleagues. The discussion in last night’s presentation was on technology in the classroom and we need to model using technology so others will follow. My question and concern is “Why are the universities not incorpaorating a computer class into the B.Ed program?” This way we will have teachers with some training in technology when they graduate.
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Hey Jackie,
I was thinking the same thing, but in a school-setting for teachers. Why don’t you suggest in-service for technology for your school? I know we discussed PD and in-service during our last session and how everyone forgets about the workshops the next and everything BUT you are in a position where you could emphasize the need for an on-going PD for technology in the classroom/school. Let me know what you think and nonchalantly email my principal on this as well (jkg),
Grace
The majority of our students will get at least one technology in education class in the Faculty B.Ed. However, it’s not mandatory and I agree, it really should be. The classic argument is, well if we make ECMP mandatory, then we should make Exxx mandatory as well, or we’ll then have to replace Exxx.
I’m hopeful, but we’re not there yet.
You raise a good thought. However, my experience in the education field is that we need more than classes. I am a VP and this year have provided professional development opportunities for staff right on site. I don’t claim to be an expert (Alec is), but I am willing to share what I do know about technology with others. The key, it seems to me is being available for the two minutes as the need arises. This year I have offered sessions in blogging, online calendars and will soon offer support with Google Docs. I model the use of technology with the students I teach and will co-teach with teachers if they want to try a new technology (by the way that classroom based PD has really been received well by my staff). I often have staff members bringing their laptop and approaching me for help in the hallway, the prep room, my office, their classroom. That just in time support seems to be really, really important and it’s an aspect of PD that has not been addressed well by school systems.
In my dream school we would have teacher support people that were well versed in core curriculum and integrating technology into these areas. I believe that this type of peer coaching at the classroom level would have a huge impact on student achievement. With the focus on data showing improved achievement for students, I have some data from this year that proves that.
As far as university, I agree that something is missing in our teacher preparation program. I am seeing students graduate from university without the skills that are needed by today’s teacher. While many utilize www tools, they don’t seem to understand the powerful ways technology can be used for learning and the need to teach responsible use of technology. Maybe it was the same 25 years ago though. Perhaps the administrators then were saying the same thing about me.
hello from darren,
I think they should offer more than one class of computers and technology. It is only going to benefit the students afterall. I’m also learning a lot through this class. Through other blogs. And from simply trying some of the applications others have suggested we try. Great stuff out there.
Later, Darren
That is good to hear that most students will take at least on computer class in the B.Ed. program. I wish that I had, but I convocated 5 years ago and a lot has changed since then. I also wish that we had taken this course with Dr.Couros at the beginning of our Masters program. The skills I have recently acquired would have helped me complete many projects.