10 Things Every Teacher Needs to Know About Technology (updated 5/8/09)

Looking at the list we began at the beginning of the module, I can see how I had a much narrower viewpoint about technology than I currently have. Everything I listed was based in purchased software and individual computers. Although the above list still remains solid for a basic beginner, I would like to add some additional comments with my new perspective in mind.

1. Know your basics; every teacher should be familiar with Microsoft Word, PowerPoint presentations, and how to search for information on the internet. You should also be aware of the fact that if your personal computer doesn’t work, there is an online application that can replace it. For example, Zoho can replace Microsoft Word, Animoto can replace PowerPoint. We don’t have to have a Microsoft product and use valuable hard drive space.

2. “Only thing to fear is fear itself” (FDR) Keep an open mind. Most computer programs are designed to be user friendly. Explore, Explore, Explore!!! Web 2.0 is your oyster!

3. Even technology comes with an owner’s manual. If it’s a program, then it’s that little book that comes in the box or inserted in the front cover of the plastic CD holder. Check out the “help” section in a program or on a website. There is a lot of information there to assist with questions.

4. Go ahead and play! Do you test drive your car? Slam the doors? Kick the tires? Then why not try out a new program. Take it around the block a few times to see how it operates. Take the time to check out what is available on line to make your assignments easier and more effective. There is most likely a free online application available that will enhance your lesson. Your playground doesn’t have to have fences that hold you into your comfort zone.

5. Practice what you teach. If you assign a website or use a program, try it out first to make sure it runs and is compatible with your computer’s operating system. If you are assigning an internet site make sure the links are valid. Always have a backup just in case. (I still agree with this one as is. I see this happen over and over with educators who come into the library with their class to use the computers for assignments)

6. If a computer/VCR/DVD/TV isn’t working, check the connections first. Is everything connected? (This happens more often than you may think.) I can’t say I would change this one either. It seems to be a common mistake and an easy fix too.

7. Not all students are proficient on computers. There are those who actually don’t have access to a computer at home. Be patient!

8. You learn something new every day. Take a class or two. There a hundreds of classes available for learning about new technology. Check out your public library, local community centers, colleges or online to name just a few. Go ahead! Choose the one that fits your needs.

Suggestion; take a lesson plan you like. Then go online to see how it can be enhanced by online applications. Students will jump at the chance to use technology instead of the same old writing assignment.

9. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. That’s what the IT specialists and library media specialists are trained for. Know your resources and be open minded to suggestions!

10. There is life beyond Wikipedia. Although Wikipedia is a quick source for information, it’s not always the most accurate. There are so many excellent government, museum and educational websites, to name just a few, with a wealth of information far superior to Wikipedia. This statement takes on a whole new meaning now.

This week's assignment really worked well with what has been happening at our school library over the current school year.

Last year, the Middle school library media specialist was asked to take on an important assignment. Even though the middle school and high school libraries had been automated, the 5 elementary schools in town were still using card catalogs. The 2007-2008 budget was approved with a provision to automate the elementary schools but the LMS for the elementary schools had been dealing with a long-term chronic illness. She was unable to complete the inventory and paperwork required to complete the contract in the allotted time. The School committee was concerned about losing the contract with Follett, so Mrs. LaFlamme was asked to step in.
It was an arduous task, the elementary LMS had not inventoried any of the elementary schools in a number of years. Hundreds of books donated by parents were literally stuffed under desks in the school's libraries. Most of the libraries were run by paraprofessionals. They were often taken away from thier library duties to be classroom aides, secretaries, and playground or hall monitors. The card catalogs were submitted to Follett for computer cataloging but it took weeks to sift through them, removing the out-of-date cards and damaged books from the inventory . The elemenraty library media specialist passed away in November. Finally, the cards were submitted to Follett, but.... 48,000 barcodes takes a while to add!

The original RetoFit proposal included the option to upgrade the High School and Middle school library's our current operating software, Spectrum to Destiny. It seems logical to have all schools running on the same system. Unfortunately, with the current budget, it's unlikely the school committee will authorize budget approval for the upgrades for the 2009-2010 school year. But the class assignment led to many conversations between the Middle school library media specialist and myself about automation, OPAC options, writing proposals, and cataloging. We are both at least satisfied that our elementary schools are on-line.

For the elementary school libraries, the new Destiny system is a wonderful addition. Students can choose books easier using the computer catalog. Printing reports, statistics and inventory lists are amazingly quicker for the new Library Media Speciaist. The Destiny system is kid-friendly; having online access will help with school work for families and educators. Adding Destiny to the elementary libraries will prepare the young children for the researching skills that will help them throughout their educational career.