Professional Development Rant

Professional development has been slow to materialize and aimed at the lowest common denominator. New technology has been placed in schools and teachers are expected to figure it out on their own. A daunting task when you consider the multitude of tasks that have been downloaded to the classroom teacher. An example would be SMART Board PD.,

which focuses on how to turn on the board, hook it up, use the basic features of the board and has had little to do with harnessing the potential of the tool to enhance teaching and learning. If teachers are to effectively integrate technology into Math, Science Language Arts etc. they require PD. that have been differentiated to meet their technology needs and delivered in a format that works for them. Exposure to “good use” of technology models in authentic learning situations would also be helpful to teachers.
Suggestions to improve PD.:
• In-school technology mentors to facilitate use of technology
• Dedicated time with classroom release for teachers to work with mentor on skills they need and view technology models
• Teacher input through school surveys re their needs and interests
• Use of data obtained through surveys to tailor PD.
• Access to technology teacher either in the classroom or the lab to facilitate technology integration that meets prescribed curriculum outcomes
• Teachers helping teachers
• Use of staff meetings and sections meetings to highlight technology projects being done in classrooms