TECHNICAL SKILLS
From WikEd
"TECHNICAL SKILLS: One of the three groups of skills required for teacher leadership and decision making; includes knowledge of both technology and pedagogy; see also interpersonal skills and conceptual skills". Found in "Teaching, Leading, and learning" by Rita A. Jensen and Therese J. Kiley.
In terms of technical skill, we need to keep in mind that teachers and students are on all different levels. We also have to keep in mind that some educators are comfortable with the level they are at. So what does that mean for students?
I think it means that in more and more cases the students will be more tech savy than their teachers. In our high schools we have had the discussion of e-text books on pda's - distributed to all 12th graders instead of text books. They would also have on their pda's the syllabus for all their classes as well as any additional software needed for the semester. Homework would be handed in electronically and quizzes would be given online. This would be a bold and exciting step towards the future, but it is also recognized that many of the teachers will need training to be able to work in this scenario. ~Becky Small
When it comes to technology and pedagogy; the single greatest hurdle is that we as teachers may embrace technology, but our environment is still mired in a paper based structure. Certainly, our students have progressed beyond paper, but unfortunately, most students will not find a consistent offering of "technology centered" coursework during their day. As a result of the lack of consistent offerings across all course offerings, the student will default to the lowest common denominator which is paper. Until the curriculum is wrapped in technology and delivered according to a standard, we can lead but must realize that many may not follow. ~Mark Emmons
In order to enhance teaching of students utilizing technology, one must integrate with the technology they use. Social networking, mp3 players, smartphones, are just a few of the technologies available that teachers should be familiar with, as well as comfortable with, and find a way to integrate it into their and their students academic lives. ~Mike Lund
While employed in the corporate sector, we were constantly trained on new technologies and were required to use them. Now a teacher, I see some basic issues preventing education from moving forward with technological advances:
- lack of educator training
- optional educator training
- lack of hardware and software (money)
- no usage requirements.
There are teachers in my school who won't even use email. Therefore, everything sent by email has to be distributed on paper as well. At least we have a good recycling program! ~Trish Stilts
