Going through the steps of the Proposal Process has been helpful in my current role of Instructional Technology Specialist: Brainstorming, Assessing the Need, Research, Strategic Plan, and Pilot and Peer Review. I realize that for the purpose and time span of this class the pilot could not truly go in depth, but its important for me to remember that the information generated in the piloting and peer review phases are instrumental in the process of successful technology adoption. A positive aspect of the journey through the Proposal Process was discussing this idea with a variety of colleagues and also hearing their thoughts about what kinds of technology they would like our school to invest in. Yes, I am still excited at the thought of 3rd and 4th grade students having access to laptops for more advanced coding projects!
Understanding the roles of Learning Specialist and Instructional Designer are key to being an effective Technology Specialist. Reading and watching videos about learning theories, SAMR, learning styles and differentiation is always a good review. It was useful for me to consider models such as SAMR, TPAK, or ADDIE while planning professional development. And although the Socratic Seminar model was not new to me, I had never before looked at the elements of this model and thought about how technology could enhance certain aspects. It’s also stimulating when we are given choices as students to use any technology tool we want, I invariably learn about new tools like Adobe Spark and Emaze and how teachers and specialists are using them. I appreciate choice being modeled like this!
You are absolutely right that understanding instructional design is a key to being an effective technology specialist. People often think this role is just about knowing the tech tools, but it's not. Our role is to help make the connections between content, pedagogy and technology (TPACK) and see how technology can transform the learning experience for our students (SAMR). The tools are just that - tools. And if we don't connect them to strong instructional design, they will not be effective.
ReplyDeleteGood luck with the advanced coding. Sounds great!