Now that I have established my GAME plan for making technology a part of my professional tool belt, it’s time to determine what exactly it is that I will need in order to make the most efficient use of my time and resources to reach my goals. Here’s a reminder of the goals I have set for myself.
Goal #1 – Model Digital-Age Work and Learning by demonstrating the proper use of digital tools to utilize information sources and quality products that demonstrate knowledge.
Goal #2 – Engage in Professional growth and leadership in my school community by sharing information and creating support systems for other teachers interested in using technology in their own content areas.
For both of these goals, the number one thing I’m going to need is administrative support. Without a supportive administration, I won’t have the flexibility or resources necessary to fully implement the kind of technology integration that I know will be beneficial for my students as well as the rest of the school.
In addition to administrative support, I will also need access to various forms of technology that I can test and try in order to find out what works best. I also feel that it would be beneficial to pair up with someone from a technologically advanced school that can help support my quest with experience and knowledge not readily available in my small environment.
In terms of additional information, my biggest concern at this point is how I can work on getting funding for the projects I would like to run. I believe it would be helpful to have someone who could assist in writing grants and getting donations, especially once it can be established that this is a worthwhile endeavor.
I want to wish you well with your plan. Having a supportive administration is the number one thing that everyone needs to be successful. As to money, grant writing is the best way. You might check with your school district and see if they have someone who currently writes grants for them. We have someone on staff in our district that does only that. Or, you might pair up with another educator that is experienced in grant writing. Hope this helps, and good luck!
ReplyDeleteEmily
I had the exact two goals as well! I really like that you're willing to step out and go even further to finding the funds for technology. I am just focusing on becoming an expert with the technology we have available. We have a similar struggle at our school as well. We are learning about all these great and exciting things, but when I try to implement any of them in my classroom, it's either blocked or we haven't paid for any of the tools or permission. It's so frustrating. I hope you are successful with your grants and then post on here the steps that you took. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteAmanda
Emily,
ReplyDeleteTHanks for the tip on the grant writing. I'll definitely be looking into that.
Amanda,
I too am still trying to learn about everything that is available out there. I just want to be ready when I finally do figure it out so I can hit the ground running.