Blog 6- Technology Training
In talking with Media Specialists, technology is always the topic of conversation. Many Media Specialists tell me the demand from administration is for them to be technology experts. In Fulton County, I've been told Media Specialists have been renamed Technology Instruction Specialists. Often times, not only are Media Specialist expected to know about technology but also how to troubleshoot and actually fix technology issues. Now, Jurkowski reminds us that Information Power requires us to be "Instructional Consultants." However, in this sense, we are deemed to be more of technology teachers for professional development.
I personally find technology intriguing and love to find out about the latest new gadget. However, I also like the opportunity to take my time and try things out with it, to see how it works and discover how it will benefit me. In saying this, what actual time do we have as Media Specialists to be able to fully prepare and equip staff with these wonderful new teaching aids. Clearly, time is needed for staff to be able to learn about and feel comfortable in using new technology.
I am currently a counselor in a middle school and it is definitely hard to get in the time to do professional development. There have often been times, we, the counselors, have been asked to provide professional development, to only be pushed back due to common core or mandates from the county that must be addressed immediately. Our Media Specialist does not currently facilitate any technology training. Our instructional AP has however, implemented mini technology trainings before school on a volunteer basis. At this time, this is all we have as it relates to technology trainings. An important point to note, Jurkowski also reminds us that Media Specialists already teach students about the library and must do the same for teachers. I guess it just boils down to taking a stand in ensuring administration knows and values your worth as the Media Specialist and provides you the support and opportunity to be able fully and effectively do your job, to include time for technology trainings through professional development.
Media specialists have a plethora of new demands outside of research and information skills. Like you've stated, today's media specialists are required to be technology experts for the school. We must be proficient enough to train teacher and students on Web 2.0 technologies. I totally agree that time is an issue. We hold so many mandates from the state, county and school itself; it becomes difficult to meet those demands, especially ones that are not considered high priority. My school reflects yours somewhat. The media specialist has been placed on so many committees that have little to do with the goals and objectives of the media program. She finds it almost impossible to be a true technology leader. The media specialist in many schools in my district have now been viewed as an extra teacher for an enrichment schedule or even the in school suspension teacher. This definitely goes against the true mission the media center. I agree, media specialists must be a constant advocate for their profession.
ReplyDeleteYolanda,
ReplyDeleteI agree with you. It is difficult to discover new technology tools during the course of the work day. The technology training my school has provided, similar to yours, did not come from the media specialist. The training sessions were conducted by teachers who have attended some training classes offered by our district. On the flip side, having knowledge of how to use the tools is great, but it is also futile if access to the tools is limited or nonexistent.