I apologize for not having an entry earlier today (Monday, May 9th) . . . I have been at the middle school helping students complete their ILPs (individual learning plans). We are very close to having 100% complete for 6th, 7th and 8th grades, so congratulations, CCMS!
Are you "techphobic"? The wonderful people at Simple K12 "work with all types of teachers - from Techphobic Tracy to EdTech Eddie." They compiled a document that contains 32 tips from real teachers from around the world who have practical advice to share about technology in the classroom.
Here are some of the tips that might be of interest to you:
1. Take the time to play - no one ever knows enough and by the time you think you might, things have changed; if possible, bring it home to try it out
2. Don't be afraid - you can't "break" the computer; experience different pieces "hands-on"; allow for "oops" moments; be prepared to be uncomfortable (at least for a little while)
3. Follow your own instruction - model for your students; tell students you are learning right along with them; ask a student to go through the directions to make sure they work; you are in charge, so stop when you want to; learn from your mistakes (Isn't that what we ask students to do?)
4. Keep it simple - don't try to do everything at once; take one step at a time; take what you are already doing in class and add a technology piece to it to enhance the lesson
5. Ask for help - allow your students to teach you; don't be afraid to ask questions; connect with other educators who are successful in integrating technology; find an educator who is using something you'd like to use and let them mentor you
Again, these are just some of the quick tips given by educators across the globe. The bottom line of integrating technology into your classroom is to go slow, practice yourself, keep it simple and ask for help!
Enjoy your week!
