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So far, I am not doing well with using technology in my classes. Unfortunately, our district has many "antiquated" notions of what encompasses technology. Being able to utilize our schools' computer lab is difficult (this week is already completely booked - except for during my prep period...go figure).
I have tried meeting with our building's IT person to discuss whether or not we can put an older computer in my room for students to use. Of course we have only one IT person, so he is busier than a, "one armed paper hanger." Our building houses both a high school and a middle school, so understandably, he has his hands full! When trying to find anything out I am told to post a "TrackIT" work order, but there are no options for adding computers to my room. This is something for which I need to meet face to face to discuss!
I am frustrated and trying to find other options. Too many of my students do not have internet access outside of school, and this makes it difficult to include them in working on any internet-based projects. If I can get some kind of internet enabled technology in my classroom, I would give them time to work on projects in class, but getting that technology is proving harder than I would have thought. Working to get approval for using cell-phones/smartphones is taking longer than I would have expected... Bureaucracy is holding my students back!!! EEK!
Keeping abreast of different learning technologies is a bit easier, since I follow several teachers on Twitter and in my Google feed. There are so many great learning tools out there - I just wish I could make them more available for my students. Working in an impoverished district can be so emotionally rewarding, but at the same time, so incredibly frustrating. I want to do so much better for my students and give them the best of everything, but we cannot get it or administration does not even want to try.
I guess you can see that it has been a pretty frustrating week...I am hoping to make some strides in a better direction as the week moves on and into the future...Maybe I can find my IT guy??? Suggestions anyone?!
Jen,
ReplyDeleteI am sorry things are not going as you had hoped. Did you ever look into a grant for computers or technology? I have never done one myself, but it might be worth a try. Hang in there and don't lose hope. You can still continue to collect great ideas for when you do finally get a computer.
Jill
Jill~
ReplyDeleteThanks for the comment. I am going to do some research on grants and technology grants to see if we can get some money for our building's wireless infrastructure and some laptops or iPads or netbooks for the classroom. It has been a frustrating start to the year and I am hoping that things improve soon. I will continue to follow the tech and math blogs closely to ensure I keep up to date on what is available.
Jen - Your post is honest and one that a lot of teachers will be able to relate to. Although I am now teaching in a fast growing district where technology is a priority, I came from a district that faced major budget cuts every year and the technology budget was one of the first things on the chopping block. Keep your head up, continue to stay networked and YES - continue looking for grants. Your students are lucky to have you as an advocate for their needs
ReplyDeleteJen:
ReplyDeleteI am sorry to hear about all of these complications, and I understand how frustrating that can be. Even though we have the technology it is a catch 22 at times. I say this because they are almost so devoted to it that when the internet goes out (every 35 mins on the hour in my room due to my room location) it can disturb the entire lesson and flow. I have tried creating public library assignments, that require them to go to the library because this can ensure that they are able to use the internet. That may be a helpful solution. Do not get too discouraged though because you are doing the best you can and that's all we can do as educators is our best.