CJP TTF

Waky’s big ideas…

• Firstly, I have been exposed to some awesome technology from which to draw and excite my students.  I have seen that these programs and apps are not magic and mirrors, but things I can learn.  Maybe I can’t learn them as fast as the youngins, but you can teach an old dog new tricks.  I’ve been frustrated at times, but I’ve also had fun. 

• I’ve thought a lot about making sure the education uses the technology, rather than the technology driving the education.  I think we lose sight of this when we hold a shiny new toy.  I am someone who still listens to records and has rotary phones, because they meet my needs for listening to music and calling people to talk.  On the other hand, I fully embraced inventions like video recording devices (ok, so I still use my VCR, but I also have TiVo!) because they met a need I had to time shift viewing television and movies.  This all makes me sound very old, but the point is that I do not use “new” because it’s “new” but when it works in my life.  I want to approach the use of the iPad capabilities in that way; use what  works for me and my kids.  On the other hand, I fully recognize that for the students, this is their “normal”. 

• I am very mindful that moving new technology in my school involves change management in the environment.  All the players must be aware of the change, decide how they will support it and keep in constant communication how to it affects our community.  The Board and School Committee need to be ready to plan for some expenses; the director has to lead the faculty in strategic plans and administrative procedures; the technical support folks need to be identified and brought on board to the team; the children will lead us with their knowledge and imaginations; the parents should expect activities to enter their homes and work with their children, as needed.  As one article noted, this is not the same as a new package of markers being delivered.

• I was a bit discouraged to realize that I have no idea of knowing what the quality control “out there” is.  The nature and speed of technical tool development and the open configuration of the internet mean that no one is necessarily watching the store.  I know that my own knowledge is so shallow, that I don’t even know when something doesn’t work the way it should because I’m not doing it right, or it’s just a little broken, or has a major flaw.  I’m going to have to depend on those more knowledgeable.  I hope we will continue to be connected through our Wiki, etc. to support each other and make useful recommendations.

• This has been a terrific adventure.