First, you have to understand I’m not the first person in line to use technology. However, I’m basically lost when my technology is not operating. My experience with colleagues who have low self-efficacy is generally situations they simply refuse to even attempt to use technology. For example, I understand the overhead projector was probably cutting edge technology when Jane, Dick, and Spot were all the rage but there have been great strides in visual presentations.
For the last few years, educators have complained about districts blocking Youtube videos. I have always been pretty stubborn so I would stay up nights trying to find ways to safely save videos to show at school. Finally, I discovered Microsoft Moviemaker. Why give others the credit when here was technology just perfect for creative inspiration? I thought the potential provided so much upside I created a small presentation for a faculty meeting. Even though I was greeted was initial enthusiasm, many of my colleagues did not share my vision. They were concerned about time commitment, skill requirements, and just an overall lack of interest.
Changing the motivation of my colleagues to encourage success would definitely start with creating a more engaging and hands-on presentation. A practical demonstration should do the trick. It would be important not to oversell because the next step could be a failure if I am unable to generate interest because of a failure to provide a relevance my colleague can connect with. We are all educators, but everyone has a particular button to push. Allowing my colleagues to be a part of the of the process during the walk through should generate the positive vibes needed to spark their belief in the idea I am sharing. Finally, the end result should conclude with buy in.
This is an interesting blog I discovered which I feel provides some keen insight. The blog can be accessed at the link http://chrismason1.wordpress.com/2011/04/29/technology-use-plan/
Here is another blog to read and gather further information about fostering support for increased usage of technology in schools can viewed at he following link http://ncara.edublogs.org/2011/03/17/collaboration-the-key-to-successful-use-of-technology-in-schools/
If you “simply refuse to even attempt to use technology” you will never reap the benefits of success. Today’s educational system must prepare critical thinkers who can solve problems in any given circumstances.
ReplyDeleteI’m always glad when I hear about a classroom teacher who’s not afraid to use multi-media devices. Understanding the value of educational technology can help us to overcome fears associated with new technology. Educational technology is very beneficial to designing curriculum and instruction that addresses the multiple ways that students learn.
It is funny to say this but I think we complain about the school not offering technology because of budget but some teachers do not offer technology because of their own insecurities and technology hang-ups.
ReplyDeleteI think I might be just the opposite when coming to technology because I always want to try it first but you and I still experience the same pushback when coming to having others adopt tecnology.
There is always a process, there must be buy-in. I think that with technology you may be able to get buy-in faster with the kids than the adults.
Mr C,
ReplyDeleteYour blog was very intriguing. I like the examples that you provided. I agree that hands on experiences are beneficial, they are inviting and build confidence amongst the audience.