Is Technology Adaptation a Primary Skillset for Teachers?

2016 National Teacher of the Year Jahana Hayes says teachers who can’t adapt to new technologies may not be “cut out for the profession.” In an EdSurge podcast interview , Ms. Hayes also discussed poor resources and approaches that confound school districts and teachers’ adaptation of edtech. Ms. Hayes believes that teachers and schools need to find a way to adapt to tech if they want success.

“I think districts and central office personnel really need to change their view of technology,” said Ms. Hayes. “Again, this is one of those areas where we should partner with someone (large corporations, universities) who uses this technology on a regular basis…”

Even with a new tech-centric national education policy and increasing awareness on the state and district levels, teachers don’t always have immediate solutions. They are left to wade the edtech waters on their own with few resources. Is it fair to make technology adaptation a requirement for today’s teachers?

Fair or not, this is the education environment we live in. The consequences for not adapting to new media and technologies can include disenchanted students, poor teacher and student performance, and a lack of long-term on students. Below are a few methods to help teachers who may be struggling with new technologies.

Adapt a Student Centered Approach

Generally speaking, today’s students are more tech-savvy then their older teachers. One way to make adapting new technology work is to have students lead discussions about or co-learn the technology as it is integrated into the classroom. Co-learning makes the experience better for all parties, and with an increased role students are more likely to engage with the class. In essence, use tech as means to flip the classroom.

Focus on Outcomes and Progress

Teachers face an incredible volume of new technologies every year. Just this week a prominent ed publication wrote an article on the pedagogical benefits of Pokémon Go for the classroom. Don’t just adapt the latest hot technology. Instead focus on whether the technology helps meet your students’ learning goals . Then evaluate its performance. Did it help students comprehend and retain your lessons? If so, continue using it.

Seek Out Free Training

New technology can be bewildering for even the most experienced minds. If you are stuck, seek out free training. There are several places that might offer this resource, including your own school district. Also consider exploring free training resources on your technology provider’s website, and free training and tips via journals and marketplaces such as EdModo, EdSurge, Edutopia, and more.

How do you adapt new technologies for your classroom?