Gallon Middle School in Ohio was a school not all too familiar with technology until they moved into a new space. Once Gallon moved into a new school with a computer lab, media center, and wireless connectivity, they realized it was time to become familiar with technology. Therefore, they applied for a grant, in which they eventually received $246,793. With this grant, they spent 75% of the money on equipment and 25% on professional development. All teachers participated in a 12-week online course. They said they didn't just want to bring all this technology in but wanted the teachers to actually be able to use it. However, some teachers were reluctant to begin incorporating technology into the classroom. The principal of the school, Andy Johnson, was quoted saying, ""We know that old habits are hard to break and that some people are comfortable with technology while others are not. Through the professional development, we're breaking down those barriers and making some progress." ing
Do you think it's right that they stress professional development that much?
What should administrators do when they are advocating for technology to teachers who have never used technology and are reluctant to do so?
If you received a grant, would you be willing to spend some of it on professional development?
Yes I think it is definetely important to have professional development. Administrators need to talk to teachers who are reluctant to change and explain to them the benifits of new technology. Then of course the person giving the professional development needs to know what they are doing. But overall I think professional development definitly might open the views older teachers have with technology. But you'll always have that one teacher who will never change. I believe that professional development would be needed when implementing new technology in any situation.
ReplyDeleteI think professional development is crucial! It would be a sin to have a bunch of technology that only one or two people knew how to use. It is hard to force people to use technology but perhaps if they have professional development they will be more likely to move it.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Alanna! We can have all the money in the world to buy different materials however if no one is versed in how to use the product they sit on a shelf collecting dust. This is a problem with many school districts today. We apply for grants and spend millions of dollars a year to recieve new technology, however we neglect to teach educators how to use them.
ReplyDeleteProfessional developments may be boring however it is nessary for the evolution of technology in the classroom.
We have all seen evidence of technology purchased and then not used because of lack of teacher training. I think it is wonderful that the district is spending a quarter of the budget on training. I agree that the reluctant teachers will be much more willing to try new things if they can be engaged and have a chance to experiment with technology in a professional development setting.
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