With the threat of COVID-19 being present in schools, we are implementing new procedures to reduce the opportunity for the virus to spread because of behaviors common in technology support. Both students and teachers frequent the support desk, and we usually provide service that includes our handling of the device presented. We recommend you consider the following changes in procedures too. STAY HOME if you are feeling ill. There is [...]
Preparing for an appropriate, phased emergency response can take quite a bit of time. As you develop those plans, consider these actions to be taken immediately. Acquire and learn a video meeting tool that could be used by all faculty at the same time. One popular choice is Zoom, who has special pricing for schools. For families with students who will need online access to remote instruction. Create a set [...]
Developing these 5 plans will help you to be better prepared for school emergencies, thinking through the contingencies while the stress levels are relatively low. The idea is not to make a perfect plan, but to create a foundation of preparation that give you the confidence and flexibility to adapt when the reality of an actual emergency require new ideas.The Communication Plan is essential to identify the ways that the [...]
[vc_row type="in_container" scene_position="center" text_color="dark" text_align="left" overlay_strength="0.3"][vc_column column_padding="no-extra-padding" column_padding_position="all" background_color_opacity="1" background_hover_color_opacity="1" width="1/1"][vc_column_text]The verdict is in: technology holds an important place in the classroom and can have transformative effects on schools, students, and teachers. However, without a thoughtful and intentional approach to implementation, schools can create problems that could otherwise be avoided. Recognizing the value of technology for student and institutional success, some schools have made rash decisions to bring tech into [...]
The successful implementation of any type of innovative program or initiative at a school relies largely on effective project planning, support from all invested stakeholders, and strong leadership. Though research shows that technology in education has endless benefits for students, teachers, and institutions alike, not all educators are convinced. Or rather, some educators have not yet experienced the added value technology can bring to the classroom. Since technology grows and [...]
The SAMR Model Explained Bringing technology into a school exemplifies progress. However, such a move is only the first of many if the school wants to truly advance their academic programming with technology in the classroom. One way of evaluating the use of technology in the classroom is with the SAMR Model. Created by Dr. Ruben Puentedura, the SAMR Model is a tool that allows teachers to assess how deeply [...]
Our program begins with a carefully designed teacher selection process that is constructed jointly between your administrative team and an instructional technology coach (ITC). The ideal teacher candidates for this program is a novice or intermediate technology user who is particularly interested in professional growth, is excited to critically examine their own pedagogy, and is looking for new technological approaches to their curriculum. Once the teachers are selected, our instructional technology [...]
Why is E-Rate program good for your school? The schools and libraries universal service support program, commonly known as the E-rate program, helps schools and libraries transform into 21st century learning centers. The FCC program offers eligible schools, school districts and libraries funding for telecommunications, telecommunications services and Internet access as well as internal connections, basic maintenance of internal connections, and managed internal broadband services. The discounts available can add up [...]
Build your technology program from the ground up A technology plan for schools (especially independent schools) can be difficult, expensive, emotionally charged, and mired in distracting non-issues that at times can seem, well, religious. They can get bogged down by well-meaning parents, hobbyists, and even technology leaders from industry that are certain that the problems the school faces are easily solved, and just require the right equipment. I once had [...]
Develop a Statement of Educational Technology Philosophy Before putting an instructional technology program in place it's a good idea to have a statement of philosophy. A successful instructional technology program must begin with objectives. One strategy is to capture those objectives in an instructional technology philosophy document. This document provides the basis of a technology action plan, and answers the most prevalent questions for faculty. Key elements of your statement [...]