Training Teachers for EdTech

Many teachers are expected to incorporate educational technology into their classes in order to improve students understanding and teach students valuable tech skills.  However, teachers also need training in order to better understand the new technologies they are expected to use in the classroom.

A school system in Cincinnati, Ohio has a district Tech Truck that is used to help train educators and refine their tech skills.  The truck is filled with the latest and greatest teaching tools and the district even provides one-on-one coaching for teachers in their 63 schools.

A tech truck is one great solution to professional development.  Here are 4 great ways to better train your teachers to use new school technologies:

1. Multifaceted Professional Development

It is important that your teachers stay open to new things.  They should be knowledgeable about the latest and greatest education technology.  Regular training workshops and one-on-one coaching sessions are a good way to keep them on top of their game.  Teachers can also participate in webinars and online tech courses to discover new edtech at their own pace.

2.  Technology Exposure

The more technology that your teachers are exposed to, the easier learning new tech becomes.  Strong and frequent training can help empower your teachers to successfully implement more tech into their curriculum.  However, make sure that your training takes into consideration the different comfort levels of your teachers and includes personalized learning.

3.  Teacher-Led Programs

Teachers tend to respond better when they are being supported by other teachers.  Having teachers lead their peers in training, creates successful blended learning.

4.  Setting Their Own Pace

All of your teachers have their own teaching styles, which means that they will each use technology differently in their classrooms. Give your teachers the freedom to discover how they work best with edtech. 

Story via EdTech