Tech+Standard+1

Technology Facilitator Standard I: Technology Operations and Concepts



**__Self –Assessment__** In recent years my campus has allocated tremendous funding into technology. The plan is to equip all the classrooms with new technology hardware such as Smartboards, projectors, laptops, and student computer stations by year 2013. I had the privilege of being one of first classrooms quipped with new technology three years ago. I had the opportunity to get familiar with the equipments and am now able to train other teachers in using these new technology. “…all models of proficiency assume that effective educators in the digital age must acquire a basic set of technology knowledge and skills. In TF/TL Standard I: Technology Operations and Concepts, technology facilitators and leaders ensure that their colleagues possess the fundamental understanding and skills needed to operate specific technologies and understand the concepts associated with technology use.” (Williams & Redish, 2009, p.17) With these hardware my teaching became more streamlined and eliminated a need for paper photocopies. As a media teacher who teaches Graphic Design, Animation, and Digital Photography I’ve been able to take full advantage of the technology and develop proficient skills in using them. I’ve been able to use these knowledge in assisting other teachers to get familiar with the system. I’ve been able to lead in technology as a member of the Tech Committee at my school. Along with the hardware implementation my school has implemented a new Student Information System called PowerSchool. The knowledge I’ve gained in the coursework from Information Systems Management helped me fully understand the scope of the system and its capabilities. During our professional development that was dedicated to learning the PowerSchool I was able to assist other teachers in the training. **__Learn as a Learner__** “With widespread investments in technology in school districts around the United States, a key challenge facing schools is how to best empower teachers to take advantage of the new technology available in their classrooms.” (Geneva Logic, 2007, p.1)As a technology leader my strategy toward teaching adults and students is to start with basics and keep things simple, then gradually build on their knowledge. I expect many older generation to have difficulty understanding the operating system on PCs, but I am always surprised by how many students are not familiar with Windows operating system. They use technology, but their use is primarily on the Internet, phones, or game devices. In my teaching I must remember that just because students know how to download music, images or videos they do not necessary know about local disk versus server disk, or know how to rename a file. Keeping that in mind I emphasize the basic operating system. Also, repetition is the key for the learners, especially for adult learners when it comes to technology. **__Lifelong Learning Skills__** Over the last 20 years there has been monumental change in technology that has influenced our daily lives. Students today are called //digital natives// ( Prensky, 2001, p.1) and they speak the native language of technology. Studies are showing that students learn differently than their parents’ generation. Educational system is playing catch-up game when it comes to using technology in teaching strategies. Many teachers still lack training and meaningful professional development is lacking in many school districts. However, there is a movement for change. Change has been slow, but it’s coming. Educational leaders are realizing that in order to prepare the students for the 21st century job market they need competitive skills. In order to provide effective and relevant education schools need to stay proactive and progressive.

References Geneva Logic (2007). Classroom Technology & Teacher-Student Interaction. 2007 Geneva Logic Report. Prensky, M. (2001). Digital natives, digital immigrants: Part 1. //On the Horizon//, //9//(5), 1-6. Williamson, J., & Redish, T. (2009). ISTE's Technology Facilitation and Leadership Standards: What Every K-12 Leaders Should Know and Be Able to Do. Eugene: International Society for Technology in Education.


 * **I.** || **Technology Operations and Concepts** ||
 * || Educational technology facilitators demonstrate an in-depth understanding of technology operations and concepts (p. 25). Educational technology facilitators: ||
 * A. || Demonstrate knowledge, skills, and understanding of concepts related to technology (as described in the ISTE National Educational Technology Standards for Teachers). Candidates: ||
 * || 1. assist teachers in the ongoing development of knowledge, skills, and understanding of technology systems, resources, and services that are aligned with district and state technology plans. ||
 * || 2. provide assistance to teachers in identifying technology systems, resources, and services to meet specific learning needs. ||
 * B. || Demonstrate continual growth in technology knowledge and skills to stay abreast of current and emerging technologies. Candidates: ||
 * || 1. Model appropriate strategies essential to continued growth and development of the understanding of technology operations and concepts. ||