Expectations
Much of the literature and many of the research studies on the effectiveness of technology suggest that its benefits are seen more commonly in constructivist environments where students are actively engaged in problem solving and authentic experiences. The question then needs to be asked, “What is the expectation?”
This fits in well with my post yesterday. I don’t believe that it is at all effective to force these new ideas about technology upon people. That would be in keeping with the thought that too many of our schools impose directives on teachers and administrators. What if a teacher is effective without using technology? Why should they have to use it? What expectation should we have for that teacher?
Environment is a particularly important component for change. When people feel that some new “innovation” is being thrust upon them, they will naturally resist. So we don’t want to create an environment where the system that is doing something to those who make the system work. Through various means we need to show teachers the effectiveness of new teaching methods; to lead them to question what they presently do in the classroom. And then we need to lead them, without judgement, toward new teaching methods that transform the learning environment into one that is more effective.
So what about that teacher who is already effective without technology? Still expose them to new methods (which they may already be doing). Still encourage them to improve what they do in the classroom. Also share the importance of teaching students 21st century skills. But if there classroom is a constructivist one, they should more easily see the benefits of taking advantage of technology tools to make their classroom even more exciting.
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