Technology
One of the challenges of this project is that the teachers already have trouble with technology and are often overwhelmed by the idea of using more of it to understanding technology. However, the goal of this program will be to engage with the technology while learning it to get a more immersed experience. Technology is necessary to tie all of these different workshops together. The following technologies will be used to facilitate the teaching. This may seem like many different tools, but it is important for teachers to be immersed in the tools we want them to use by situating them as participants.
- Screencast tutorials will be used to demonstrate skills and strategies.
- Google Sites will be used to create a storage place for materials and links to further readings and ideas.
- WordPress will be used to create a blog space for the program where I will write summaries of our sessions and pose questions or post videos to watch.
- Google Docs will be used to collaborate on documents, agendas and for teachers to keep records of their learning during the professional development.
- Web 2.0 tools will be used based on the needs and interests of the group or as an aspect of a week’s lesson. These casual “tech tips” are aimed at getting teachers thinking beyond just what we have installed at our school and get them familiar with the many resources available online.