Walking the Walk

August 27, 2020

In the video, “Innovation That Sticks”  Bill Corcoran answered the question “What is the role of tech experts in supporting teachers.” He stated that it was his job to “help teachers understand technology and their pedagogy and help to facilitate learning for students.” We must “build capacity, people helping people who help people” (EdCan, 2016). I fully agree with this statement. It is my job, as an instructional technology specialist to help teachers learn the technology and how they can use it to enhance their curriculum. Teachers must learn that the technology is not the focus, it is a means to the end. There is so much to learn and there is simply not enough time for me to do it alone.

To improve our professional learning, Principle 2 says “There must be support for a teacher during the implementation stage that addresses the specific challenges of changing classroom practice” (Gulamhussein, 2013). The support can come from many places. I am one of those resources, other resources are other teachers, professional learning communities and even videos and websites. 

Collaborating with other teachers is a key form of support. Teachers are experts in their content and many are very skilled in using technology in their classrooms. Teachers are also more accessible as they have PLC’s together and are in close physical proximity to those who might need support. 

During this time of such dramatic change in education, I can say that the teachers in my school have come together to collaborate and support each other. It is amazing to see teachers who struggle with technology becoming more comfortable with using it. The pride they feel when they create content they never thought they could (due to the support they are receiving) inspires me.

References:

Gulamhussein, A. (2013). Teaching the Teachers Effective Professional Development in an Era of High Stakes Accountability. Center for Public Education. Retrieved from http://www.centerforpubliceducation.org/system/files/2013-176_ProfessionalDevelopment.pdf

EdCan. (2016, May 19). Innovation That Sticks Case Study – OCSB: Collaborative Professional Development [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/iUusuw-xdr4