Feeding the Need

From the survey that I have conducted, I have discovered that in order for my colleagues to embrace technology integration in their teaching, there are needs that have to be worked upon first. Amongst the first needs that have to be addressed are:

·       Being in position to access the computer lab at all times.
·       Being conversant with the basic technology applications.
·       Being in position to use the computer for record keeping and data analysis.
·       Being in position to surf for relevant information or data from the internet.
·       Some need to change their attitude towards technology i.e. get rid of the technophobia.
·       Acquiring personal gadgets like laptops, iPads, or smart phones for starters.
Before this course I was just like a number of them with only the basic computer knowledge. I had an added advantage that I was a proud owner of a laptop and a smart phone, gadgets that have been handy throughout my journey of staff development.
When I started the course I was cautiously feeling my way. Slowly by slowly I got to learn more about computers through the following steps;
·       Identifying and having a professional learning goal.
·       I have created a blog in which I have shared my experiences in the course.
·       Exploring and joining social media.
·       I have surfed for relevant professional development information from the websites.
·       I have created my personal learning network.
·       I have learnt to contribute to a discussion online.
·       I have learnt to join a wiki discussion and to contribute to it.
·       Finding Video resources on teacher professional development and professional learning goals on YouTube.
·       I have created my own YouTube channel to which I posted teacher professional development videos from YouTube for further viewing.
·       I have also created a diigo account on which I have bookmarked the teacher professional development sites and blogs that I intend to revisit.
·       I have learnt to upload documents.
Using the knowledge that I have acquired this far and the gadgets that I have, I am in position to take up the challenge as an isolated teacher in a school to teach and help my colleagues to acquire the above information and skills. That would be the starting point for me to give them the basic technology information and skills as I also encourage them to acquire their personal technology devices. It may not be easy for individuals to have constant access to the internet because of the cost involved in being connected throughout.  However, once the project starts, it would not be difficult for the school administration to render its support and also to solicit support from the ministry of Education since the whole issue is to improve Education through Technology integration.