"Empowering Educators: How Professional Development Models Prepare Teachers to Integrate New Technology in the Classroom"
Professional development should be a top priority when implementing new technology to ensure teachers can use it confidently to teach students. Frazier and Hearrington (2024) state, "One component that is sometimes overlooked in the planning process is the allocation of resources for professional development and training" (p. 183).
By focusing on continuous learning, educators can stay updated with the latest technological advancements and teaching strategies, fostering an environment where other teachers and students thrive. Moreover, this proactive approach minimizes resistance to new technologies, as teachers are equipped with the necessary skills and support to integrate these tools effectively into their curriculum. Schools and districts can benefit significantly from investing in comprehensive professional development programs that are specific to their needs. This investment not only enhances the teaching and learning experience but also ensures that students are better prepared for a future that increasingly relies on technology. The ISTE professional development model provides a structured framework for professional development in technology integration. They help prepare students for digital-age learning and careers.
The ISTE professional development model provides a structured approach to integrating technology into education. It focuses on preparing students for the digital age and supporting educators in enhancing their practices. The model includes several standards:
Frazier and Hearrington (2024) state, "The development of a comprehensive and ongoing system of technology training and instructional support for effectively using technology in the classroom will maximize results" (p. 183).
Furthermore, by embracing the ISTE standards, schools create a continuous improvement and innovation culture. This culture encourages educators to experiment with new tools and methods, fostering curiosity and resilience among teachers and students. As technology evolves, the ISTE model provides a flexible framework that adapts to changing needs, ensuring that educational practices remain relevant and effective.
The ISTE professional development model serves as a vital resource for educators striving to integrate technology into their teaching. Focusing on comprehensive development and support lays the foundation for a future-ready education system that prepares students to thrive in a digital age. ISTE is an excellent resource and professional development forum that helps teachers and students transform educational experiences with practical guidance and evidence-based learning (Mitttha, 2021).
In all, professional development in integrating technology is important because it equips educators with the skills and confidence to effectively use digital tools in the classroom.
This ensures that teachers can enhance student learning experiences, foster creativity, and engage students in ways relevant to the digital age. With ongoing training, teachers stay current with evolving technology, enabling them to personalize learning, improve teaching strategies, and better address diverse student needs. Additionally, it supports the responsible use of technology, including promoting digital citizenship and ethical online behavior. Ultimately, prepared educators help prepare students for success in a technology-driven world.
Frazier, M., & Hearrington, D. (2024). The technology coordinator’s handbook: A guide for EdTech facilitators and leaders (4th ed.).
International Society for Technology in Education. (2024). ISTE
standards for educators. ISTE. https://cms-live-media.iste.org/ISTE_STANDARDS_2024.pdf
21st Century Learning International. (n.d.). ISTE standards professional development. 21st Century Learning International. Retrieved [insert date if required], from https://www.21c-learning.com/iste-standards-professional-development/
With the large sums of money being spent on technology in schools today, it is imperative that an investment is also made in teacher training. "The development of a comprehensive and ongoing system of technology training and instructional support for effectively using technology in the classroom will maximize results" (Frazier & Hearrington, 2024, p. 183). I believe that individual coaching and mentoring programs can be the most effective in helping teachers learn about and successfully implement new technology. I have seen this be successful in my district with the new smart boards that were purchased this year. "PD for teachers will be more effective with the help and support of mentors, inclined for continuous changes in practice compared to traditional approaches, which involve workshops and lectures" (Saman & Musa, 2023, p. 1).
ReplyDeleteReferences
Frazier, M. & Hearrington, D. (2024). The technology coordinator's
handbook: A guide for edtech facilitators and leaders (4th Ed).
International Society for Technology in Education.
Saman, A. & Musa, K. (2023), Instructional coaching through
technology integration: Accompanying teacher services
in the digital era of education 5.0. International Journal
of Social Science and Education Research Studies, 3(11),
doi.org/10_55677/ijssers/V03I11Y2023-17.
The ISTE professional development model is a great framework because it emphasizes ongoing, job-embedded learning rather that one-time training sessions. I love how it encourages collaboration, coaching, and hands on practice, as these are all important for teachers to feel confident when integrating technology into their instruction. One aspect in particular I find helpful is the focus on personalized learning which allows educators to engage in PD that aligns with their specific needs and classroom goals. This ensures specific needs are met.
ReplyDeleteFrom Tanishia Smith-
ReplyDeleteI completely agree that professional development is important for effective technology integration. I believe that in a lot of cases, professional development for new technology is not made a priority. This leaves teachers unsure of how to use new tools effectively. Ongoing PD ensures that teachers not only understand the technology itself but also the reasons behind its implementation and how to use it effectively in their classrooms (Frazier & Hearrington, 2024). For large-scale and sustainable improvement in teaching and learning with technology, PD needs to be made a priority. This includes how teachers are trained, how technology is introduced, and the ongoing support provided for both educators and students (Bull et al., 2016). When schools prioritize professional development and strong support systems, I believe teachers feel more confident, students are more engaged, and technology is used more effectively.
References
Bull, P., Spector, J. M., Persichitte, K., & Meier, E. (2016). Effective use of educational technology requires ongoing support. Journal of Applied Instructional Design, 5(1), 17-28.
Frazier, M., & Hearrington, D. (2024). The technology coordinator's handbook (4th ed.). International Society for Technology in Education.