· As a school administrator and instructional leader, what instructional technology would you expect to see in the written, taught, and tested curriculum of a school or school district striving to meet the needs of 21st century learners?
· Taught curriculum
o I would expect to see extensions and resources for the written curriculum online.
o I would expect that every teacher in my school to create at least one detailed unit complete with differentiations and share it online.
o I would expect to see a discussion forum for the teachers. A place where they can reflect on each others lessons, share what they learned, make suggestions for improvement, and more.
o I would expect to see teachers using laptops and projectors on a regular basis.
o I would expect that students would be given the opportunity to use web 2.0 tools to create, collaborate, and share.
o I would expect to see a computer based, or preferably game based program designed and used to give students individualized instruction at their own level.
· Tested curriculum
o I would expect to see a test generator.
o I would expect that students would be given the opportunity to use web 2.0 tools to create, collaborate, and share. Less emphasis on tests and more on authentic assessments
o I would expect to see digital portfolios
· Written curriculum
o I would expect to see the entire published curriculum also in electronic form, even e-book form for my students.
o I would expect to see curriculum mapping software used to unify the entire curriculum.
o I would expect to see a discussion forum for the teachers so they can log and suggest revisions to the curriculum
o I would expect there to be a way for my teachers to get just in time PD if and when they need it.
· What instructional technology would you promote to differentiate instruction for all learners? Consider some of the tools and strategies outlined in the Jacobs' text.
Different representation
· I would promote the use of universal access technology built into most modern computers. Text-to-speech speech-to-text, contrast, zoom, etc…
· I would promote the use of technology that allows teachers to present materials in a variety of ways such as podcasts, or video.
· I would promote the use of individual technologies such as tablets, laptops, or smart phones to allow students to receive instructions.
Different engagements
· I would promote a student centered programming such as Compass Learning or Read 180 that gives student instruction at their level.
· I would promote the use of individual technologies such as tablets, laptops, or smart phones to allow students to participate in class. Polleverywhere.com, voki, voicethread, etc….
Different action and expression
· I would promote the use of web 2.0 technologies that allow students to publish authentic work to the world. Blooging, schooltube. Etc..
· I would promote tools that allow students to share and discuss with other students outside their classroom and school. Wiki, google docs, etc….
· I would promote the use of tools that allow students to participate in authentic activities at times even experts, authors, or other interested parties. Skype, diigo groups etc…
Comments
Now the challenge is to think about how you will respond to resistance, non-compliance, and complaints...these are all part of the package! Changes (big and small) do take time- always keep your effective leadership readings near and dear to your heart.
Thank you for all of your work these past 6 weeks!