New Recipe for the New Year

I was never what you might call an “early adopter” of technology. I had to be forced to use a smartphone and didn’t join social media of any kind until 2015. But last spring, I joined the ETS team because I was compelled to do more for teachers and students. This meant I had to learn a LOT to be able to introduce teachers to the newest technologies and how to use these new tools in the classroom. Now I have to be more than just an early adopter, I have to be an active researcher, creator, and consumer of technology. And let me tell you, it has been a total education game changer!

As we begin this new school year, it may be time for us all to consider becoming “early adopters”, or at least trying just one new tool. Many teachers often find the thought of using digital devices in the classroom to be scary. But I assure you, be not afraid! Using technology is a lot like using a recipe for the first time. It will take a bit of preparation and a little practice, but soon you will be able to do it by memory and even modify the recipe yourself!

I now realize my self-doubts, not access, kept me from fully embracing technology in my classroom. As we transition from traditional styles of education to modern and interactive ones, we have to let our fears and doubts fall away. We are the true agents of education change, and our students require and deserve equal access to a rich, interactive, and rigorous education.

And, what an exciting time it is to be a teacher! With the tools and resources OKCPS has available, students can explore and drive their learning in ways like never before. For teachers, valuable time can be saved using lessons and curriculum already created through online sharing sites like SMART Learning Suite, Nearpod, Hoonuit, and many, many more. Once you start cooking up your own technology adventures, you may even be the next great creator of a fantastic new digital resource! Happy New School Year!

Christine