I recently posted about my frustration in tech computer inservices because the instructors lost patience with those of us who struggled to keep up with some of our tech savvy peers. Today I read where training in technology still seems to be an issue for a lot of teachers along with a lack of updated equipment.
After more than a decade of investment in school technology, educators say they still don't feel adequately prepared to integrate instructional software into their classrooms and aren't getting the technical support they need to fully impact student achievement, according to a joint study by the nation's two largest unions.
Released June 10 by the National Education Association (NEA) and the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), the study--called Access, Adequacy, and Equity in Education Technology--examines the state of educational technology resources and support in public schools across the country, as reported by classroom teachers and instructional assistants.
Although they often have access to computers and the internet in their classrooms, many teachers don't feel adequately prepared to use technology to enhance their lessons, the report suggests. What's more, many teachers in urban schools say they have insufficient or outdated equipment and software.
Teachers and students should have the same level of technology in schools that is being used outside of schools. How can we expect our teachers to provide kids with the education they need to join today's high-tech workforce without the necessary equipment and training?" asked NEA President Reg Weaver.
Instead of spending money creating more tests and complaining about public education, perhaps some of the real issues need to be addressed. Also, instead of redundant inservices, why not allow teachers to collaborate about how to integrate technology into their instruction?