Philosophy

My personal philosophy of technology encompasses more than programs and tools. Technology is one of a hundred tools educators can use in their classroom to enhance their students learning and understanding. Having skills using technology is one important skill for getting a good job in today’s society. Educators need to spend more time learning the technology so they are able to use the technology successfully. Technology is always changing and will not disappear from education so educators need to learn to embrace it. Technology needs to be integrated in curriculums slowly and to do that successfully school districts need plan effective in-service days that incorporate technology.

Educators that use technology need to be leaders and show others how to effective use technology. Teachers need to evaluate their own teaching and continually enhance their lessons with technology or other effective strategies. A positive and encouraging atmosphere needs to be present for teachers to adopt technology into their curriculum. They need easy to use and easy to learn technologies that do not take excessive time away from class time. Teachers need to attend conferences and workshops on technology in order to keep up to date with the latest technology.

Another important aspect with technology is relationship building. A technology coach must know their staff. Having this connection can motivate educators to adopt technology that they normally would not touch. The encouragement and support educators can receive from a technology coach is crucial to their effective use of technology. Sending periodical emails out to teachers with technology tips or newer technologies is a great way to foster relationships. It is also beneficial to touch base with teachers face to face and see how they are doing and if they need anything. If a teacher does ask for help, the technology coach should sit down and brainstorm what the teacher wants to do and then give them their expertise on the area of technology.